stratham planning board agenda december 16, 2020 stratham
TRANSCRIPT
Stratham Planning Board
AGENDA
December 16, 2020
Stratham Municipal Center
Meeting Room A
Time: 7:00 PM
The public may also access this meeting at the date and time above using this conference call
information. Please dial 1-800-764-1559 and input 4438 when prompted for a user pin/code. Please
follow the Chair’s instructions delivered at the meeting in order to register comments during the public
meeting.
If at any time during the meeting you have difficulty hearing the proceedings, please call 603-772-7391
ext. 180.
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
2. Review/Approval of Meeting Minutes
a. December 2, 2020 3. Workshop:
a. Gateway Commercial District. To consider deleting Section 3.8 in its entirety and replacing it with an amended Section 3.8.
b. Town Center District. To consider deleting Section 3.9 in its entirety and replacing it with an amended Section 3.9.
c. RT 33 Legacy Highway District. To consider adding a new section 3.10 to regulate uses of qualifying structures within the proposed District.
d. Table of Uses. To consider amending Section III, Subsection 3.6 Table of Uses to clarify the nomenclature and the permitting requirements and procedures for the various permitted land uses of the Zoning Ordinance, and also to amend the Footnotes to Table 3.6 by adding footnote number 10 to clarify the permitting requirements and procedures for light manufacturing uses within the applicable Zoning Districts.
e. Section 4.3.d.
4. Other:
a. Capital Improvements Program
b.
5. Adjournment Full text of the agenda and related information can be found on file with the Stratham Planning Department and posted on the Town website at https://www.strathamnh.gov/planning-board . All interested persons may be heard. Persons needing special accommodations and /or those interested in viewing the application materials should contact the Stratham Planning Department at (603) 772-7391 ext. 180
ADDENDUM TO PB AGENDA 12-16-20
4.3
(d) For lots that abut Route 33 or Route 108, the minimum front setback shall be 10 feet from the State
Right-of-Way or 20 feet from edge of pavement, whichever is greater. The above setbacks shall not apply to
septic tanks and/or leaching fields. Septic tanks and/or leaching fields must be located at least 30 feet from
the edge of a right-of-way, or comply to the standards set forth in Section 20.1.1 & 2 of this Ordinance; the
more restrictive provision shall apply. In addition, for land that lies south and west of Route 101 that is also
served by municipal sewer and water, the minimum rear and side open space setback shall be the same as
the yard dimensions, the minimum open space shall be 15%, and the height of the buildings may also be
increased in accordance with footnote f, below. (Rev. 3/91, 3/96, 3/99, 3/13)[ I believe this is a mistake/holdover
from TC regulations and should be deleted – Tavis]
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Stratham Planning Board Meeting Minutes 2 December 2, 2020 3
Municipal Center, Meeting Room A 4
10 Bunker Hill Avenue, Stratham, NH 5
Time: 7:00 PM 6
7
Members Present: Tom House, Member 8 Mike Houghton, Selectmen’s Representative 9 Pamela Hollasch, Alternate Member (voting and by telephone) 10
Joe Anderson, Alternate Member 11 12 Members Absent: David Canada, Member 13
Colin Laverty, Member 14 Robert Roseen, Member 15
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Staff Present: Carol Ogilvie, Interim Town Planner 18
David Moore, Town Administrator 19
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1. Call to Order/Roll Call 21
Mr. House called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and introduced Board Members and Staff 22
2. Review/Approval of Meeting Minutes: November 18, 2020 23
Mr. House asked if everyone had had a chance to review the minutes of November 18, 2020. 24 They had, and he made a motion to approve, seconded by Joe Anderson, with all in favor. 25
Mr. House stated that the agenda would be rearranged, with the two preliminary 26 consultations going first, so that the applicants would not have to wait for the zoning 27
workshop to conclude. He noted that as a preliminary consultation, nothing said tonight, by 28 any party, is in any way binding. 29
3. Preliminary Consultations 30
a. 18 Marin Way 31
Mr. Joe Coronati introduced himself and his client Rob Graham and stated that they were 32 before the Board to introduce a proposal to add a warehouse onto an existing building in an 33
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industrial park. This would be an 85 x 120-foot addition to be used only for storage. Mr. 34
Coronati went on to describe the plans for managing stormwater runoff, which consists 35
largely of making use of and improving upon existing treatment facilities in place. This 36 expansion would put the impervious cover on the lot at the maximum allowed of 40% 37 coverage. Mr. Graham provided some background information on the need for this 38 expansion, after which Mr. Coronati asked if there were any questions. 39
Mr. House had the following questions: 40
▪ Does the existing fire pump have the capacity for the expansion? Yes. 41 ▪ Could the applicant confirm that they would not be asking for any waivers? Yes. 42 ▪ Is the warehouse only to be used for storage? Yes. 43 ▪ Is the existing water & sewer service adequate for the expansion? Yes. 44
Mr. Houghton recommended that they check with the Fire Chief to make sure they are in 45 compliance with applicable requirements regarding access around the building. 46
Preliminary Consultation concluded at 7:20 P.M. and the applicants left the meeting. 47
b. Lot Line Adjustment 48
Mr. Scammon introduced himself and his client and Robert Taylor and explained that they 49
were seeking a lot line adjustment between Map 9 Lot and Map 13 Lot . It is a very 50 simple, straightforward proposal, changing lots that are now 15 and 17 acres, respectively, to 51 3 and 29 acres. The only reason they are before the Board now is that a previous subdivision 52
was recorded with a condition that one of these lots not be further subdivided. And even 53
though he is of the opinion that this is not a subdivision because it is not creating any new 54 lots, he felt it was better to be safe and get the Board’s opinion before having his client go 55 through the expense of filing an application only to be turned down. 56
Following the presentation, Mr. House stated that in his opinion this was not a subdivision; 57 he then polled the Board as to their opinion on this request. Mr. Houghton, Mr. Anderson, 58
and Ms. Hollasch all stated that they did not believe this constituted a subdivision. Mr. 59 House recommended that, if approved, the condition regarding no further subdivision be 60 carried forward to the new plat. Mr. Scammon agreed. 61
Preliminary Consultation ended at 7:40 P.M. and Mr. Taylor left the meeting. 62
4. Zoning Workshop: 63
Mr. House stated that he had received comments from Jeff Hyland on the draft proposals and 64 would first like to go through those. Mr. Scammon had also been invited to comment on the 65 proposals, and he stayed at the meeting to participate in the discussion. 66
The Board and Mr. Scammon went through the draft proposals for the Gateway, Town 67 Center, and Legacy Highway Districts; a summary of the comments are as follows: 68
69
70
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Gateway Commercial District 71
1. A number of Mr. Hyland’s comments had to do with the building, site, and architecture 72
design standards. The Board noted which ones could be easily corrected and those that 73 might need more discussion. 74
2. There is a question about how the depth of a zoning district is defined – for example, from 75 the edge of the right-of-way, or from the center line. There seems to be differences 76 throughout the ordinance. 77
3. There is a question about a map for the Gateway district. The current ordinance defines 78 three separate zones within the district; however, the proposed change would only have 79 one. 80
4. Mr. Scammon noted that by eliminating the Outer Zone, agricultural buildings over 400 81
square feet would need a Conditional Use Permit, whereas now they do not. 82
5. There seems to be some inconsistencies with the diagrams for building height, frontages, 83 and setbacks. Mr. Scammon stated that short setbacks make snow plowing and removal 84 very difficult. Mr. Houghton replied that the intent of these setbacks was to encourage 85
building placement closer to the street so that parking would be on the side or in the rear 86
of the building. 87
(Ms. Hollasch left the meeting at 8:17 P.M.) 88
6. Mr. Scammon pointed out that there are a number of references to sidewalks throughout 89
the document, but he cannot find any specific requirement for having a sidewalk. 90
7. Mr. Moore stated that this is a very good discussion, but clearly many questions are being 91 raised about the draft, and he would support the idea of an overall zoning audit to make 92 sure that all the discrepancies are caught. 93
8. Mr. Scammon noted that the entire concept of the Gateway district relied on the existence 94 of water and sewer. If these changes can’t address that, what are we actually doing here? 95
9. Mr. Houghton replied that the Board felt it was practical and necessary to relax some of 96 the standards/restrictions that are based on the infrastructure that doesn’t exist. The 97 challenge is how to do that without erasing the design elements. He feels this effort 98
should focus on that, and sidebar unrelated comments. 99
Town Center District 100
10. There is a question about the “Regulating Plan” – where is it. Ms. Ogilvie stated that she 101 had the same question as she was reviewing the document, and has yet to find anything in 102 the files that calls itself that. 103
11. Ms. Ogilvie also wondered about the uses that are allowed by Conditional Use Permit. In 104 both of these districts being reviewed, the process that included CUP approval by the 105 Board was eliminated, but the table of uses still contains uses that are permitted by CUP. 106 Was that an oversight, or is there a CUP process that lives somewhere else the Board 107
would rely on? It was agreed that that was an oversight. 108
12. There was a question about street trees, the distance between them, and whether they were 109 required on both sides of the street or only one. 110
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Rt. 33 Legacy Highway District 111
Mr. House stated that there would not be time tonight for a full review of this draft; 112
however, the big question at this point, raised by Mr. Scammon, is where exactly are the 113 district boundaries. Mr. House and Mr. Houghton believe that a map does exist, within 114 the report prepared by the Ad Hoc Committee. Ms. Ogilvie stated she had looked for 115 one, and had reached out to Mr. Austin, who directed her to the map they are now 116 looking at – which does not show district boundaries. 117
5. Adjournment 118
Mr. House stated that the meeting should be adjourned and this workshop continued to the 119 next meeting on December 16, 2020. Mr. Houghton made that motion, seconded by Mr. 120
Anderson, with all in favor. 121
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Note(s): 123
1. Materials related to the above meeting are available for review at the Municipal Center 124
during normal business hours. For more information, contact the Stratham Planning Office 125 at 603 -772 -7391 ext. 147. 126
2. The Planning Board reserves the right to take items out of order and to discuss and/or vote on 127
items that are not listed on the agenda. 128
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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SECTION III: ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS AND USES
3.8 GATEWAY COMMERCIAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (REV. 3/11, 3/13, 3/16, 3/17)
3.8.1 Authority:
a. The action of the Town of Stratham, New Hampshire in the adoption of this Ordinance
is authorized under RSA 674:21.II Innovative Land Use Controls and RSA 674:16 Grant
of Power.
b. This Ordinance was adopted to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the
Town of Stratham and its citizens, including protection of the environment,
conservation of land, energy and natural resources, reduction in vehicular traffic
congestion, more efficient use of public funds, health benefits of a pedestrian
environment, preservation of community character, education and recreation,
reduction in sprawl development, and improvement of the built environment.
c. This Section was adopted as one of the instruments of implementation of the public
purposes and objectives of the Town’s Master Plan. This Ordinance is declared to be
in accord with the Master Plan, as required by RSA 674:2.
3.8.2 Applicability:
a. This Ordinance shall establish the Gateway Commercial Business District (the
“District” or “GCBD”). The boundaries of the District are shown on the plan entitled
“Gateway Commercial Business District, Town of Stratham, New Hampshire” and
dated December 22, 2009 (as amended). (Rev. 3/13)
b. The provisions of the GCBD shall be mandatory for development projects within the
Gateway Commercial Business District. Development projects submitted for approval
under this zoning district shall be subject to applicable requirements of the Subdivision
and Site Plan Review Regulations of Stratham. (Rev. 3/13)
c. When in conflict, the provisions of the GCBD shall take precedence over those of other
ordinances, regulations, and standards except the Local Health and Safety Ordinances
and Building Codes. (Rev. 3/13)
d. Section 3.8.10 Definitions of Terms contains regulatory language that is integral to the
GCBD. Those terms not defined in Section 3.8.10 or in Section II of the Zoning
Ordinance shall be accorded their commonly accepted meanings. In the event of
conflicts between definitions in the Zoning Ordinance and the GCBD, those of the
GCBD shall take precedence.
e. The requirements of Section 3.8.7 Development Standards and Tables are an integral
part of the GCBD and are legally binding. Unless otherwise noted, other diagrams and
illustrations that accompany this ordinance are provided for guidance purposes and as
recommended examples.
f. If in conflict, numerical requirements shall take precedence over graphical illustrations.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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3.8.3 Purpose and Intent:
a. The purpose of the Gateway Commercial Business District is to enhance the economic
vitality, business diversity, accessibility, and visual appeal of Stratham’s Gateway
Commercial Business District, in a manner that is consistent with the landscape and
architecture of the Town’s agricultural tradition.
b. The intent of the GCBD is to foster development of a vibrant mixed-use district with a
cohesive street layout and architectural character that includes commercial, residential,
and civic uses and integration of open spaces, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian
accommodations. The requirements of the GCBD are based primarily on building
form, placement and function, site design, and the overall built environment including
streetscapes, landscaping, and outdoor spaces and facilities.
c. Development in the Gateway Commercial Business District shall incorporate the
following:
i. Wherever possible, natural infrastructure and visual character derived from
topography, woodlands, farmlands, riparian corridors, and other environmental
features shall be retained;
ii. Infill development and redevelopment shall be encouraged;
iii. Development contiguous to adjacent zoning districts shall be organized to
complement and be compatible with the existing pattern of development and the
natural landscape;
iv. Network of existing and proposed streets shall be designed for access to Portsmouth
Avenue and local connector roads, disperse traffic to and from the District, and
reduce traffic volumes;
v. Transportation corridors shall be planned and reserved in coordination with
proposed land uses;
vi. Greenways shall be used to define and connect developed areas and provide public
spaces and enhance view sheds to adjacent conservation lands;
vii. Development shall integrate a framework of transit, pedestrian, and bicycle systems
that provide accessible alternatives to the automobile;
viii. Use of on-street parking shall be emphasized;
ix. Architectural and landscape design suited to a traditional New England appearance
shall be applied; and
x. Public gathering and public use spaces shall be established and connections made
throughout the District in a manner and location that will encourage use and
promote safety and security.
3.8.4 The Regulating Plan:
a. The purpose of this Ordinance is to enable, encourage, and implement the Regulating
Plan and general requirements.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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b. For the purposes of the delineation, the Gateway Commercial Business District and the
location and boundaries of Special Districts are hereby established as shown on a map
entitled “Regulating Plan for the Gateway Commercial Business District of the Town
of Stratham, New Hampshire” (the “Regulating Plan”) dated December 22, 2009 and
hereby incorporated as part of this ordinance.
i. Note that the Regulating Plan identifies three special districts that comprise the
Gateway Commercial Business District. For the purposes of zoning regulation, this
Ordinance regulates the Gateway as one district. The Regulating Plan maintains
the three distinct special districts in order to memorialize the original intent of this
district.
3.8.5 District Character:
a. Development in the Gateway Commercial Business District should incorporate the
following concepts to preserve and complement elements of the agricultural and
historic tradition of Stratham and local and regional village character:
i. Comprised of compact, pedestrian-oriented development;
ii. Mixed use pattern of development where development specializing in a single use
should be the exception;
iii. Where ordinary activities of daily living should be located within walking distance
of residential areas, allowing independence to those who do not drive;
iv. Within mixed use and residential neighborhoods, a range of housing types and price
levels shall be provided to accommodate diverse ages and incomes; Workforce
housing is encouraged within the District to promote a variety of housing choices;
v. A range of Open Space including parks, squares, and playgrounds shall be
distributed within neighborhoods and throughout the District;
vi. Expansion and provision of public transportation facilities that promote use and
access is encouraged;
vii. Provide improved visibility and access to and use of conservation lands, where
appropriate; and
viii. Provide opportunities for agriculture and agritourism as defined in Section II,
Definitions, 2.1.6 (Rev. 3/16)
3.8.6 Conditional Use Permit
a. The Planning Board shall have the authority to grant or deny a request for a Conditional
Use Permit, pursuant to the provisions of RSA 674:16 and RSA 674:21. A Conditional
Use Permit, for relief from the requirements of this Ordinance, after proper public
notice and public hearing where the Planning Board finds that an application complies
with standards 1. and 2. below.
1. Consistent with the Gateway Business District Master Plan, including but not
limited to:
a. Both public and private buildings and landscaping shall contribute to the
physical definition of streetscapes and public spaces; and
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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b. Development shall adequately accommodate automobiles and emergency
vehicles, while respecting the pedestrian and the spatial form of public
spaces; and
c. Design of streets and buildings shall reinforce safe environments, but not at
the expense of accessibility and efficient traffic flow; and
d. Architecture and landscape design shall complement climate, topography,
community character, and building practice; and
e. Open space and public gathering places shall be provided as locations that
reinforce the identity and activity of the District and the community; and
f. New development and redevelopment shall be otherwise consistent with the
intent and purpose of this ordinance; and
g. Does not unduly impact adjacent properties and uses in the District.
2. Improves public safety within the District and/or in adjacent zoning districts;
or provides environmental and natural resource protection; or provides a
measurable public benefit (such as increased public space, open space or
public amenities).
b. The granting or denial of a conditional use permit by the planning board may be
appealed to the superior court, as provided for in RSA 677:15. A planning board
decision on the issuance of a conditional use permit cannot be appealed to the
zoning board of adjustment (RSA 676:5 iii).
3.8.7 Building and Site Design Standards:
a. Purpose:
In order to provide for harmonious and aesthetically pleasing development in the built
environment [RSA 674:44, II(b)], the Planning Board will apply the following Building
and Site Design Standards in its review of all applications in the District.
b. Intent:
Maintaining the quality and character of the community is dependent upon the quality
and character of the architecture and development that is allowed to occur. Poorly
planned and executed development detracts from the character and function of the built
environment, while well-planned development enhances community character, quality
of life, and value of the surrounding properties and the community overall.
Design standards are a tool to help guide development and redevelopment assuring that
community priorities are an integral part of the design process. Design Standards,
implemented as part of the application review and approval process, are a set of design
principles that offer a positive direction for building and site level design. The
guidelines and interpretations are based upon maintaining and enhancing the character
of the community. They are not intended to specify any particular architecture or style.
Design Standards address a wide range of design issues including such elements as:
pedestrian and traffic circulation, building mass and scale, architectural details, signs,
landscaping, lighting, open space, and natural features. When integrated, these
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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elements will create a project that is functional, attractive, and an asset to the
community.
c. Building and Site Design Evaluation:
The evaluation of the following factors will inform the Planning Board’s decisions on
whether proposed site and building designs achieve the purpose and intent of these
Design Standards and of this Ordinance. The Planning Board shall develop a GCBD
guidance document to further illustrate and provide details of the design standards
stated below. This document shall be utilized by applicants when designing projects
within the District.
i. Within a development project, site design elements should be compatible with
small New England Village character and the town’s agricultural history.
ii. Building architecture should demonstrate the cohesive planning of the development
and present a clearly identifiable, attractive design feature and appearance
throughout. It is not intended that buildings be totally uniform in appearance or
that designers and developers be restricted in their creativity. Rather, cohesion, and
identity can be demonstrated in harmonious building style, scale or mass; consistent
use of facade materials; similar ground level detailing, color or signage; consistency
in functional systems such as roadway or pedestrian way surfaces, signage, or
landscaping; public amenities; the framing of outdoor open space and linkages, or
a clear conveyance in the importance of various buildings and features on the site.
iii. Building architecture should be designed to provide an attractive appearance.
Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly contrasting color schemes
are strongly discouraged. If proposed, such building styles should be substantially
modified to create a project that complements the small New England Village
character. All architectural details should be related to an overall architectural
design approach or theme.
iv. Diversity of architectural design is encouraged. Buildings that are characteristic of
a historic period are encouraged, particularly if a building style or the site is
historically appropriate for the community or necessary for architectural harmony.
v. Multiple buildings on the same site should be designed to create a cohesive visual
relationship, as well as efficient circulation and access for pedestrians and vehicles.
Accessory buildings should be designed to complement the primary building and/or
use on the site in design and material expression.
vi. Building placement should take best advantage of solar orientation, climatic and
other environmental conditions, should encourage safety and use of adjacent public
spaces and public open spaces, and should minimize the impact of activity and light
upon and from the project.
vii. Buildings adjacent to public open space should generally be oriented to that space,
with access to the building opening onto the public open space.
viii. Implementation of Low Impact Development techniques is strongly encouraged,
including, but not limited to, storm water management practices, alternative
surfacing materials, building and site design elements, and landscaping features.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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ix. The practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally
responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle from siting to
design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction are
strongly encouraged.
x. All electrical utilities shall be located underground.
d. Internal Drive Aisle/Thoroughfare Connection Standards:
i. Thoroughfare intersections and on-street parking shall be set back a minimum of
100 feet from Portsmouth Avenue.
ii. Thoroughfares shall be laid out in a grid-like pattern and may be composed of
angular, rectangular, or square configurations that define blocks.
iii. Thoroughfares shall provide the following streetscape elements: pedestrian
crossings, planting areas, trees, and lighting. Pedestrian/Bike lanes and
accommodations shall be encouraged.
iv. Sidewalks. All developments shall provide or contribute to the development and
construction of sidewalks to serve the development site. The width of the sidewalk
shall be consistent with the prevailing pattern in the immediate neighborhood,
provided that no new sidewalk shall be less than six feet wide. Crosswalks shall be
clearly marked with diagonal-striped paint and electronic signals where applicable.
Where feasible, crosswalks should be constructed of a contrasting material to the
street surface, such as brick.
v. Thoroughfares that incorporate commons and squares are encouraged to provide
public parks and spaces and add visual form and interest to the development.
Roundabouts may also be incorporated when necessary to enhance traffic flow and
safety.
vi. Other new thoroughfares shall be aligned as closely as possible at right angles to
the roadway network shown on the Regulating Plan and spaced according to the
needs of the development serviced, traffic demand and safety.
vii. Portsmouth Avenue/NH 108 frontages shall be developed with sidewalk, street
trees, and street lights in accordance with section 3.8.7 table 4.
e. Landscaping Standards:
The following landscaping standards shall apply to all development:
i. Following are requirements for implementation of buffers:
1. A minimum 30-foot vegetated buffer shall be provided between proposed
development and adjacent residential zoning districts outside the GCBD;
2. Street trees and other plantings shall be placed within the building setback on
the lot or right of way of Portsmouth Avenue;
3. A 30-foot vegetated buffer where a residential use abuts a non-residential use
or a mixed-use development.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March ____
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ii. Buffers shall be established or maintained at a density that attenuates year round the
impact of activity and light on adjacent properties.
iii. Use of native species of trees, shrubs, groundcover, and decorative plants in all
landscaping is strongly encouraged.
iv. A landscaping plan, including a maintenance plan and agreement, shall be approved
as part of the review and approval process as stated in the Site Plan Review (Section
V.5.2) and Subdivision Regulations.
f. Lighting Standards:
i. Street/thoroughfare, building and site lighting shall not adversely impact
surrounding uses and residential projects, and be designed with minimal light (See
Site Plan Regulations) spilling or reflecting into adjacent properties and with
protection of the night sky. Such lighting shall not blink, flash, oscillate, or be of
unusually high intensity of brightness, except for purposes of providing emergency
services or to protect public safety.
ii. Energy efficient exterior lighting and streetlights shall be provided.
iii. Lighting of the site shall be adequate at ground level for the protection and safety
of the public in regard to pedestrian access and vehicular circulation. This shall
include, but not be limited to sidewalks, crossings, parking areas, and other public
spaces.
iv. Refer to additional lighting requirements in Section 3.8.8, Table b.4.
v. Unless otherwise stated, lighting shall comply with the standards of the Site Plan
Review Regulations, Section V.5.8.
g. Parking Standards:
i. On-street parking shall provide short-term parking for patrons of shops and
businesses. On street parking to service residential areas is recommended.
ii. Parking for mixed use developments shall provide long term and shared parking by
multiple uses and users.
iii. Delivery and other service-related areas for mixed use and non-residential uses can
be located at the front, rear, or sides of buildings, or within designated portions of
parking areas. Loading docks and service areas shall not face a public frontage.
Delivery and service vehicles are encouraged to utilize rear alleys for building
access.
iv. Parking structures shall comply with the dimensional requirements and design
standards of principal buildings. Below ground and multi-story parking structures
are encouraged.
v. Refer to additional parking requirements in Section 3.8.7, Table b.5.
vi. Parking in the District shall comply with the requirements of Section V.5.9 of the
Site Plan Regulations.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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3.8.8 DEVELOPMENT OF STANDARDS AND TABLES (REV. 3/16)
a. Permitted Uses
Type of Use Gateway Zone
Agriculture and
Forestry
By Conditional Use Permit
Agriculture and agritourism as defined in Section II, Definitions, 2.1.6. See footnote 5. Agricultural
structures greater than four hundred (400) square feet require a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning
Board. (Rev. 3/16)
Civic/
Institutional
By Conditional Use Permit
Includes private schools, nursery through college schools; day care facilities; senior citizen centers;
outpatient clinics and treatment facilities; non-profit lodges and fraternal organizations; place of worship
including customary ancillary facilities; public utilities; and municipal buildings
Commercial
Permitted
Includes retail sales and service, business and professional services, banking and lending institutions,
food service/bar/entertainment, special promotional sales and displays, conference centers, movie and
performance theatres, indoor entertainment complex,
By Conditional Use Permit
Includes, light manufacturing facilities3, and veterinary hospitals
Drive-through
Service By Conditional Use Permit
Food
Service/Bar/
Entertainment1
Permitted
Mixed Use2 Permitted
Residential –
multi-family and
other residential
uses
By Conditional Use Permit
Includes multi-family (4+ units), workforce housing, manufactured housing, home occupations,
accessory dwelling units, bed and breakfast inns, hotels, motels, and hostels
Recreational
By Conditional Use Permit
Includes public parks and playgrounds; passive, non-motorized recreation; natural resource management
and research
1Food Service/Bar/Entertainment includes all food service and entertainment related uses such as restaurants, dinner theatres,
bars, pubs, cafes, and coffee shop/diners.
2 Mixed Use includes Residential and Commercial and/or Professional Business uses in combination in one or several structures;
non-residential use shall comprise >50% of the gross floor area. 3 Light Manufacturing Facility* includes facilities that produce and sell 1) artisanal products derived from materials such as
paper, wood, metal and ceramic, food products, and fine art, or 2) light manufacturing determined by the Board to not have
negative impacts on traffic, circulation, or similar neighborhood impacts. 4 Uses may be permitted according to the terms and restrictions of any open space designated on a specific property. 5 Agricultural buildings four hundred (400) square feet and smaller do not require a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning
Board. Agricultural buildings greater than four hundred (400) square feet are subject to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).
Agricultural buildings requiring a CUP are not required to have engineered plans. The Planning Board is authorized to request
studies prepared by professional consultants if the planning Board determines that such studies are necessary to render a decision
regarding the CUP. (Rev. 3/16)
Footnote 5 needs discussion relative to whether
agricultural buildings (of any size/over a certain
size?) need a CUP.
Footnotes should be organized chronologically.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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b. Design Standards and Roadways
TABLE 1. Dimensional Requirements
Elements Standard Description
Block 8,000 S.F. minimum
30,000 S.F. maximum
Block with thoroughfare frontage on no less than two
sides; Minimum area dependent on Soil-Based Lot
Sizing*
Building Footprint
(non-residential and
mixed use)
75,000 S.F. maximum
Minimum area dependent on Soil-Based Lot Sizing*
Multi-Family (3-8 4+
units)
8,000 S.F. maximum
building footprint
Minimum area dependent on Soil-Based Lot Sizing*
Frontage Buildout 60% min / 80% maximum Applies along Portsmouth Ave./NH 108 frontage
only. * Unless innovative sewage treatment facilities are proposed or public water and wastewater services are available, all
developments shall meet the standards set forth in the Stratham Subdivision Regulations Section 4.3 Soil-Based Lot Size
Determination (as amended).
TABLE 2.
Building Height Setbacks – Principal Structures
Principal Structure1
(maximum)
3 stories
40 feet maximum
height
Frontage (from street or lot line)
0 minimum
15 maximum
Principal Structure1
(minimum) 1.5 stories
Side or Secondary
Frontage (from street or lot line)
10 minimum
0 feet if secondary frontage2
1 Principal Structures include: (1) uses served by single and multiple structures and (2) parking structures 2 The minimum building/structure front setback requirement for properties fronting Portsmouth Avenue shall be ten (10) feet
from the State Right-Of-Way or twenty (20) feet from the edge of pavement, whichever is greater. (Rev. 3/13)
First Floor Height
14 feet minimum
required for non-
residential;
10 feet minimum
required for residential
Rear (from street or lot line)
10 feet minimum
0 feet if secondary frontage
Note: Individual buildings on a lot or block may be
connected, with no separation between or setback from one
another.
15’ Min
45’ Max
Ma
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um
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t li
ne
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ised
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Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
10
TABLE 3. Accessory structures shall be limited to the following:
Type of Use Dimensional Requirements
Commercial, Businesses and
Other Non-Residential Uses
1.5 stories maximum height
8 feet minimum first story height
Civic, Recreational, Public Facilities or
Transportation Uses
No restrictions on dimensional requirements.
TABLE 4. Streetscape Elements
Element Standards Description
Planting Strip
5-foot minimum width
(as shown on roadway
cross-sections)
Refer to Site Plan Review Regulations Section V.5.2
for landscaping requirements.
Setback Combined 13 feet
minimum/20 feet maximum
Composed of sidewalk and planting or street buffer
strip with granite curbing.
Crossings
6 feet minimum width,
10 feet maximum width
Required at street
intersections and permitted
at mid-block
Within an individual block or development, shall be
composed consistently of similar materials and may
include brick, pavers, stamped concrete, porous
pavement; all sidewalks shall have granite curbing
against a thoroughfare. Differentiate with use of non-
asphalt materials, striping and accent paving or
materials.
Street Trees 1 per 251 linear feet of right
of way
Located within the Planting Strip or Street Buffer Strip.
Applies along Portsmouth Ave./NH 108 frontage only.
Lighting 1 per 251 linear feet of right
of way
Along all sidewalks, New England traditional fixtures
with downcast illumination; lighting placement shall
alternate with street tree placement. Applies along
Portsmouth Ave./NH 108 frontage only.
Seating Encouraged In public spaces (such as pocket parks and gardens) and
at street intersections.
Shelters (transit, school
bus stops) Optional
Painted or coated metal frame or natural materials.
Trash Receptacles Required Secured and covered at street intersections or mid-
block.
Bicycle Racks Required At transit stops/shelters, public spaces, parking areas. 1 For trees and lighting located along Portsmouth Ave. (SR 108), the spacing shall be AVG 30’ for trees and AVG
60’ for lighting. The Planning Board shall determine the final number and location of each element based upon
review by qualified professionals and in coordination with NHDOT. (Rev 3/17) TABLE 5.
Parking Area Design Standards
Element Standards Description
Medians
Located between opposing
parking isles and at
periphery.
Shall incorporate for use as a storm water management
best management practice, wherever feasible;
vegetation shall be appropriate for wet/dry conditions
and salt tolerant.
Islands Located at end of parking
isles and at entrance/exit.
Used primarily as screening and landscaping areas
comprised mostly of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers
that are drought and salt tolerant.
Placement
Located at rear or side of
buildings, and interior of
blocks.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
11
TABLE 6.
Public Space and Open Space Standards
Public Space
Developments shall include a minimum of 15 percent of the total area dedicated to
public spaces. Public space calculations shall not include lands within required
thoroughfare cross-sections and other proposed streets.
Public space shall include facilities and landscapes that promote outdoor activities
and enjoyment.
Open Space
Developments of 1 acre or greater shall include a minimum of 15 percent of the total
area dedicated to open space. Open space shall not include lands within required
thoroughfare cross-sections and other proposed streets. Open space shall be no less
than 1 acre of contiguous area or the entire 15 percent area requirement whichever is
less; open space requirement can be transferred elsewhere within the Central Zone by
designating the minimum open space requirement on another property.
Open Space may include septic reserve areas, well protection areas, and LID storm
water management features (i.e. natural areas such as bio retention areas, vegetated
buffers and rain gardens).
Open space shall consist of natural areas, or created natural areas such as gardens,
landscaped areas and parks, where the public may gather, recreate and enjoy scenic
views.
Figure 1. Zone Roadway Cross-Section
Street/Thoroughfare (60’ right-of-way)
Is this still pertinent?
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
12
3.8.9 Architectural and Site Design Standards
a. Building Exterior Features:
i. Building facades shall be compatible in scale, mass, and form with
adjacent structures and the development pattern of the surrounding area
(assuming the adjacent structures are generally in compliance with
these design standards).
ii. Exterior building design and detail on all elevations shall be
coordinated with regard to color, types of materials, number of
materials, architectural form, and detailing to achieve harmony and
continuity of design.
iii. Paint colors, excluding signage and awnings (refer to xv.), shall be of a
palette to achieve consistency of style and character with adjacent
development.
iv. Where appropriate, architectural details and richly detailed designs are
encouraged to provide variation and creative designs. All features and
details should be of a style consistent with the overall design scheme
and in proportion with the building and adjacent structures.
v. Rear and side building walls, if visible from public streets and spaces
or neighboring properties, shall be designed with similar detailing and
materials and be compatible with the principal façade(s) of the building.
All elevations and cross-sections of a building shall be shown on a site
plan.
vi. To avoid long unbroken or unadorned wall planes, building facades and
walls should not extend beyond 50 – 75 feet without including changes
of wall plane that provide strong shadow or visual interest.
vii. Exterior materials shall be durable and of high quality. Excessively
vibrant colors, sharply contrasting colors, and highly reflective materials
are not compatible with the traditional New England character. All
Architectural elements of all facades must be submitted with an
application.
viii. Pedestrian level storefronts shall employ non-reflective glass or light gray
tinted glass to enhance the visibility of the displayed merchandise from
the outside.
ix. Window and door openings on the front façade shall occupy a total of no
less than 20% and no more than 70% of the gross square footage of that
façade. The size and placement of windows should be commensurate
with architectural style of the buildings and landscape elements in the
development.
x. All windows and doorways shall be encased with wood or simulated
wood trim; decorative trim is preferred. Aluminum windows shall be
finished to match the proposed trim color of the building.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
13
xi. True divided light windows and shutters are encouraged. Shutters shall
be sized such that when closed they cover the window.
xii. All vents, gutters, downspouts, flashing, electrical conduits, etc., shall be
painted to match the color of the adjacent building surface, unless being
used expressly as trim or accent element.
xiii. Material or color changes generally should occur at a change of plane.
Piecemeal embellishment and frequent changes in color or material
should be avoided.
xiv. The visibility of rooftop equipment shall be minimized by grouping all
plumbing vents, ducts, and rooftop mechanical equipment away and
screened from public view at ground level. Wall or ground mounted
equipment shall be screened fully from public view with walls, fences or
vegetation. No air conditioning, ventilating, or other mechanical or
electrical equipment, except for lighting fixtures, may project more than
four (4) inches beyond the face of a wall facing a public street or space.
xv. Awning covers designed for shade and for entryways shall be made of
fabric or simulated fabric-like material that match or complement paint
colors used on the building. Brightly illuminated and franchise type
awnings are not acceptable.
xvi. Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly contrasting color
schemes are strongly discouraged. If used, such buildings shall be
designed to create a project that is consistent with traditional New
England village character.
xvii. Fences in the traditional historic New England style and materials (i.e.
picket, split rail, wrought iron, brick, stone) shall be used. Chain link
security fences may be allowed only where necessary for safety or
security, but their use is generally discouraged.
xviii. The following building materials shall be used and combined to create a
consistent, attractive, and cohesive building design:
1. Natural Brick (painted brick is not recommended, as it tends to
require frequent maintenance);
2. Natural Stone (such as, but not limited to, fieldstone, granite,
limestone and marble);
3. Terra cotta and/or cast stone which simulate natural stone);
4. Splitface Block/Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) and painted concrete
block or panels as appropriate for side and rear elevations;
5. Natural wood and/or cement-based artificial wood siding;
6. Glass; and
7. Any material not listed here, subject to Conditional Use Permit.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
14
b. Roof Lines, Styles and Materials:
i. Sloped roofs are highly preferred. Gabled and hipped roofs should have
a slope of greater than 4/12 (18º), but less than 14/12 (49º).
ii. Gambrel and Mansard roofs are acceptable for appropriately sized
structures.
iii. Standing seam, copper roofing, asphalt, and slate shingles are preferred.
Photovoltaic (PV) panel roof materials, which simulate traditional
roofing materials, are acceptable. Metal roofs that face the street are
discouraged, unless architecturally blended with the facade.
iv. Flat roofs are strongly discouraged unless to allow the creation of a
“green roof” as a Low Impact Development (LID) technique. Where
used, they should have a parapet wall at the façade with cornice elements
and facing all thoroughfares.
c. Site Design:
i. Traditional New England Village planning principles (“Traditional
Neighborhood Design”) are used to create a village center consisting of
dense mixed use and commercial areas organized around public spaces
and bordering residential neighborhoods.
ii. All roadways shall provide a pedestrian and bicycle friendly layout and
incorporate landscaping and lighting elements.
d. Land Use and Housing:
i. Mixed Uses in the Zone shall provide commercial retail stores and shops,
food service/bar/entertainment establishments, and professional offices
and businesses on the first floor of buildings, with professional office and
businesses, light commercial (such as artisanal manufacturing) and
residential uses optionally on the upper floors.
ii. Residential neighborhoods should include a mix of housing types, sizes
and styles, and provide public gathering and/or recreational spaces or
areas for use by residents, businesses, visitors and the community.
iii. Developments shall provide a viable mix of residential and non-
residential uses to promote living and employment opportunities in the
style of a traditional New England Village.
e. Landscaping:
i. Landscaping shall be an integral component of site design to provide
visual interest, scenic and aesthetic beauty, maintain natural vegetation
and landscape features, and maintain or create greenways throughout the
District.
ii. Traditional New England Village landscaping shall include street trees,
large shade trees, groups of plantings, box planters along streets, and
pocket gardens and parks. Low shrubs and flowering plants soften lines
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
15
of buildings and help screen parking lots and utilities.
iii. Landscaping shall be integrated with LID practices, general storm water
management, and parking lot and roadway designs.
iv. Landscaping should consider use of native species of trees, shrubs, ground
cover and flowering plants.
1. For all development within the District, a Landscaping Plan shall be
prepared and submitted following the requirements of this ordinance
and Section V-5.2.N of the Site Plan Regulations.
f. Transportation Network and Access:
i. New roads, streets, or internal thoroughfares shall connect to the existing
transportation network within the District and adjacent zoning districts to
provide efficient traffic patterns and site access, and provide for public
safety. Development shall provide potential future connections to
adjacent properties and not prevent or preclude these connections.
g. Open Space and Recreation:
i. All development in the District is required to provide a percentage of
open space. These open spaces shall be located to provide connections
between existing open spaces (both within the outside the District), visual
interest, scenic vistas and view sheds, diversity in the developed
landscape, preserve natural resources and features, provide gathering
spaces for community uses, civic uses and outdoor activities.
ii. Existing conservation lands within the District and beyond its periphery
provide natural areas for passive recreation by residents, visitors and the
public, and provide extensions of the required open space areas within
the District.
3.8.10. DEFINITIONS OF TERMS
This Subsection provides definitions for terms in this Ordinance that are
technical in nature or that otherwise may not reflect a common usage of the term.
a. Accessory Structure: An Outbuilding or with an Accessory Use to the
Principal Structure.
b. Bicycle Lane: A dedicated lane for cycling within a moderate-speed
vehicular Thoroughfare, demarcated by striping.
c. Block: The aggregate of private Lots, Passages, Rear Alleys and Rear Lanes,
circumscribed by Thoroughfares or Streets.
d. Boulevard: A Thoroughfare designed for high vehicular capacity and
moderate speed, traversing an urbanized area.
e. Civic: The term defining not-for-profit organizations dedicated to arts,
culture, education, recreation, government, transit, and municipal parking.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
16
f. Civic Building: A building operated by not-for-profit organizations dedicated
to arts, culture, education, recreation, government, transit, and municipal
parking, or for use approved by the legislative body.
g. Civic Space: An outdoor area dedicated for public use. Civic Space types are
defined by the combination of certain physical constants including the relationships
among their intended use, their size, their landscaping and adjacent buildings.
h. Curb: The edge of the vehicular pavement or edge of a sidewalk or setback
that may be raised or flush, and often incorporates a drainage system.
i. Density: The number of dwelling units within a standard measure of land
area.
j. Disposition: The placement of a building on its Lot.
k. Driveway: A vehicular lane within a Lot for the purpose of providing access
from a thoroughfare.
l. Drive-through Service: A business (such as a bank or restaurant) that is
designed so that customers can be served while remaining in their cars.
m. Elevation: An exterior wall of a building not along a Frontage Line. See:
Facade.
n. Facade: The exterior wall of a building that is set along a Frontage Line. See
Elevation.
o. Frontage: The area between a building Facade and the vehicular lanes,
inclusive of its built and planted components. Frontage is divided into
Private Frontage and Public Frontage.
p. Frontage Line: A lot line bordering a Public Frontage.
q. Greenway: An Open Space Corridor in largely natural conditions or re-
established vegetated and/or forested conditions, which may include trails for
bicycles and pedestrians.
r. Infill: Noun - New development on land that had been previously developed,
including most Greyfield and Brownfield sites and cleared land within
urbanized areas. (Verb- to develop such areas.)
s. Lot Width: The length of the Principal Frontage Line of a Lot.
t. Low Impact Development: Low Impact Development (LID) incorporates
sustainable land development approaches that begin with a site planning
process that first identifies critical natural drainage systems and other
landscape hydrologic functions. LID techniques include: maintaining natural
drainage flow paths, minimizing land clearance, clustering buildings, and
reducing impervious surfaces. A series of small storm water best
management practices (BMP’s) that preserve the natural features and
hydrology of the land are used instead of the conventional methods of
collecting, conveying, and discharging runoff off the site.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
17
u. Mixed Use: Multiple functions within the same building or in multiple
buildings on a lot.
v. Office: Premises available for the transaction of general business but
excluding retail, artisanal and manufacturing uses.
w. Open Space: Land intended to remain undeveloped.
x. Park: An area of natural, semi-natural, or planned space designated for
human enjoyment and/or the protection of wildlife or natural habitats.
y. Parking Structure: A building containing one or more Stories of parking
above grade.
z. Path: A pedestrian way traversing a Park or rural area, with landscape
matching the contiguous Open Space, ideally connecting directly with the
Sidewalk network.
aa. Principal Building: The main building on a Lot, usually located toward the
Frontage.
bb. Principal Entrance: The main point of access for pedestrians into a building.
cc. Principal Frontage: The Frontage designated to bear the address and Principal
Entrance to the building, and the measure of minimum Lot width. See
Frontage.
dd. Private Frontage: The privately held Layer between the Frontage Line and
the Principal Building Facade.
ee. Public Frontage: The area between the Curb of the vehicular lanes and the
Frontage Line.
ff. Public Space: Lands that are dedicated for public use but that are privately
owned and maintained which may include squares, plazas, greens, civic
spaces, paths, trails, alley, park,
gg. Rear Alley: A vehicular way located to the rear of Lots or Blocks providing
access to service areas, parking, and Outbuildings and that may contain utility
easements. Rear Alleys should be paved from building face to building face,
with drainage by inverted crown at the center or with roll Curbs at the edges.
hh. Rear Lane: A vehicular way located to the rear of Lots providing access to
service areas, parking, and Outbuildings and containing utility easements.
Rear Lanes may be paved lightly to Driveway standards. The streetscape
consists of gravel or landscaped edges, has no raised Curb, and is drained by
percolation.
ii. Regulating Plan: A Zoning Map that shows the boundaries of the Gateway
Commercial Business District and Zones within it, and other areas subject to
or potentially subject to regulation.
jj. Secondary Frontage: On corner Lots, the Private Frontage that is not the
Principal Frontage.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
18
kk. Sidewalk: The section of the Public Frontage dedicated exclusively to
pedestrian activity.
ll. Square: A Civic Space type designed for unstructured recreation and Civic
purposes, spatially defined by building Frontages and consisting of Paths,
lawns and trees, formally disposed.
mm. Story: A habitable level within a building, excluding an attic or raised
basement.
nn. Street: A local urban Thoroughfare of low speed and capacity.
oo. Thoroughfare: A way for use by vehicular and pedestrian traffic and to
provide access to Lots and Open Spaces, consisting of Vehicular Lanes and
the Public Frontage.
pp. Traditional New England Village: Development patterns that are civic-
oriented, pedestrian-friendly, economically vibrant and diverse,
environmentally sustainable, and evoke a unique sense of place that emulates
the agricultural tradition of Stratham.
3.9 TOWN CENTER DISTRICT (Adopted 3/14; Rev. 3/16)
3.9.1 Authority:
a. The action of the Town of Stratham, New Hampshire in the adoption of this
Ordinance is authorized under RSA 674:21. II Innovative Land Use Controls and
RSA 674:16 Grant of Power.
b. This Ordinance was adopted to promote the health, safety, and general welfare
of the Town of Stratham and its citizens, including protection of the
environment, conservation of land, energy and natural resources, reduction in
vehicular traffic congestion, more efficient use of public funds, health benefits
of a pedestrian environment, preservation of community character, education
and recreation, reduction in sprawl development, and improvement of the built
environment.
c. This Section was adopted as one of the instruments of implementation of the
public purposes and objectives of the Town’s Master Plan. This Ordinance is
declared to be in accord with the Master Plan, as required by RSA 674:2.
3.9.2 Applicability:
a. This Ordinance shall establish the Town Center District (the “District”). The
boundaries of the District are shown on the Official Town Zoning Map (as
amended) and the on the map entitled “Town of Stratham, NH, Town Center
District Regulating Plan” (the “Town Center Regulating Plan”) dated
December 2013 (as amended) and hereby incorporated as part of this ordinance.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
19
b. The provisions of the Town Center District shall be mandatory for development
projects within the District. Development projects submitted for approval under
this zoning district shall be subject to applicable requirements of the
Subdivision and Site Plan Review Regulations of Stratham.
c. When in conflict, the provisions of the District shall take precedence over those
of other ordinances, regulations, and standards except the Local Health and
Safety Ordinances and Building Codes.
d. Section 3.8.10 Definitions of Terms contains regulatory language that is
integral to the District. Those terms not defined in Section 3.8.10 or in Section
II of the Zoning Ordinance shall be accorded their commonly accepted meanings.
In the event of conflicts between definitions in the Zoning Ordinance and the
District, those of the District shall take precedence.
e. The requirements of Section 3.9.8 Development Standards and Tables are an
integral part of the District and are legally binding. Unless otherwise noted,
other diagrams and illustrations that accompany this ordinance are provided for
guidance purposes and as recommended examples.
f. If in conflict, numerical requirements shall take precedence over graphic
illustrations.
3.9.3 Purpose and Intent:
a. To provide a traditional pattern of development that supports a diverse range of
uses, public spaces, and walkable streets culminating in an integrated rural New
England town center and civic focal point.
b. To promote traditional small town center building and site development patterns
with an interconnected pattern of streets, alleys, and lanes, which provides for
safe and efficient vehicular and pedestrian travel at a scale consistent with the
small, rural town center setting, and which provides for the connection of those
streets to existing and future developments;
c. To protect environmental resources, preserve and protect scenic vistas, historic
and archeological buildings and sites, conservation and agricultural areas, and
unique natural features of the landscape and district;
d. To enhance the economic vitality and business diversity. Create a critical mass
of businesses and activity in the Town Center that further establishes the area
as a focal point providing a unique shopping, service based business
opportunities and recreational and cultural experiences in the region.
e. To provide for pedestrian and bicycle travel throughout the development
through the creation of sidewalks, paths, and bicycle paths;
f. To promote the use of neighborhood greens, pocket parks, landscaped streets,
and access to green space to provide space for recreation and social activity, and
to provide visual enjoyment;
g. To preserve and enhance the rural, small town character of New England towns
through architectural and streetscape design that replicates in scale and character
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
20
the best examples of traditional neighborhood design from the historic towns
and villages of New England and to create and clearly delineate public and
private spaces to enhance the quality of life and aesthetic quality of both the
residents of the development and the town as a whole;
h. To provide a mix of housing styles, types, and sizes, to accommodate
households of all ages, sizes, and incomes;
i. To provide buildings and spaces for civic assembly and neighborhood activities
that promote the development of social networks and community and provide a
visual focal point for the village subdivision.
j. Development in the Town Center District shall incorporate the following:
i. Wherever possible natural infrastructure and visual character derived
from topography, woodlands, farmlands, riparian corridors, and other
environmental features shall be retained;
ii. Adaptive reuse, infill development and redevelopment shall be
encouraged. New construction should reinforce the historic significance
of the District and be compatible with the context of the existing
historically significant structures identified in the Regulating Plan;
iii. Development contiguous to adjacent zoning districts shall be organized to
complement and be compatible with the existing pattern of development
and the natural landscape;
iv. Network of existing and proposed streets shall be designed for access to
Portsmouth Avenue, College Road, Winnicutt Road, and local connector
roads, disperse traffic to and from the District, and reduce traffic volumes;
v. Transportation corridors shall be planned and reserved in coordination
with proposed land uses;
vi. Greenways shall be used to define and connect developed areas and
provide public spaces and enhance view sheds to adjacent conservation
lands;
vii. Development shall integrate a framework of transit, pedestrian, and
bicycle systems that provide accessible alternatives to the automobile;
viii. Use of on-street parking shall be allowed;
ix. Architectural and landscape design suited to a traditional New England
rural and village appearance shall be applied; and
x. Public gathering and public use spaces shall be established and
connections made throughout the District in a manner and location that
will encourage use and promote safety and security.
3.9.4 The Regulating Plan:
a. The purpose of this Ordinance is to enable, encourage, and implement the
Regulating Plan and general requirements.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
21
b. For the purposes of the delineation, the Town Center District and the location
and boundaries are hereby established as shown on the Official Town Zoning
Map (as amended) and the on the map entitled “Town of Stratham, NH, Town
Center District Regulating Plan” (the “Town Center Regulating Plan”) dated
December 2013 (as amended) and hereby incorporated as part of this ordinance.
3.9.5 District Character (Rev. 3/16):
a. Development in the Town Center District should incorporate the following
concepts to preserve and complement elements of the historic character of
Stratham Town Center:
i. Provide for a traditional pattern of development that supports a diverse
range of uses, public spaces, and walkable streets culminating in an
integrated town center and civic focal point.
ii. Mixed use pattern of development where development specializing in a
single use should be the exception;
iii. Where ordinary activities of daily living should be located within walking
distance of residential areas, allowing independence to those who do not
drive;
iv. Within mixed use and residential developments, a range of housing types
and price levels shall be provided to accommodate diverse ages and
incomes; Workforce housing is encouraged within the District to promote
a diversity of housing choices;
v. A range of open space including pocket parks, squares, and playgrounds
shall be distributed within neighborhoods and throughout the District;
vi. Preservation and enhancement of historically and architecturally
significant structures, landmarks, and archeological sites as identified in
the Regulating Plan;
vi. Expansion and provision of public transportation facilities that promote
use and access is encouraged;
vii. Provide improved visibility and access to and use of conservation lands,
where appropriate; and
viii. Provide opportunities for agriculture and agritourism, as defined in
Section II, Definitions, 2.1.6 (Rev. 3/16)
3.9. 6 Conditional Use Permit
a. The Planning Board shall have the authority to grant or deny a request for a
Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to the provisions of RSA 674:16 and RSA
674:21. A Conditional Use Permit, for relief from the requirements of this
Ordinance, after proper public notice and public hearing where the Planning
Board finds that an application complies with standards 1. and 2. below.
1. Consistent with the Gateway Business District Master Plan, including but
not limited to:
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
22
a. Both public and private buildings and landscaping shall contribute to
the physical definition of streetscapes and public spaces; and
b. Development shall adequately accommodate automobiles and
emergency vehicles, while respecting the pedestrian and the spatial form
of public spaces; and
c. Design of streets and buildings shall reinforce safe environments, but
not at the expense of accessibility and efficient traffic flow; and
d. Architecture and landscape design shall complement climate,
topography, community character, and building practice; and
e. Open space and public gathering places shall be provided as locations
that reinforce the identity and activity of the District and the community;
and
f. New development and redevelopment shall be otherwise consistent with
the intent and purpose of this ordinance; and
g. Does not unduly impact adjacent properties and uses in the District.
2. Improves public safety within the District and/or in adjacent zoning
districts; or provides environmental and natural resource protection; or
provides a measurable public benefit (such as increased public space, open
space, or public amenities).
b. The granting or denial of a Conditional Use Permit by the Planning Board may
be appealed to the Superior Court, as provided for in RSA 677:15. A Planning
Board decision on the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit cannot be appealed
to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (RSA 676:5 iii).
3.9.7 Building and Site Design Standards:
a. Purpose:
In order to provide for harmonious and aesthetically pleasing development in
the built environment [RSA 674:44,II(b)], the Planning Board will apply the
following Building and Site Design Standards in its review of all applications
in the District.
b. Intent:
i. Maintaining the quality and character of the Town Center is dependent upon
the quality and character of the architecture and development that is allowed
to occur. Poorly planned and executed development detracts from the
character and function of the built environment, while well-planned
development enhances community character, quality of life, and value of
the surrounding properties and the community overall.
ii. Design standards are a tool to help guide development and redevelopment
assuring that community priorities are an integral part of the design process.
Design Standards, implemented as part of the application review and
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
23
approval process, are a set of design principles that offer a positive direction
for building and site level design. The guidelines and interpretations are
based upon maintaining and enhancing the character of the Town Center.
iii. Design Standards address a wide range of design issues including such
elements as: pedestrian and traffic circulation, building mass and scale,
architectural details and building materials, signs, landscaping, lighting,
open space, and natural features. When integrated, these elements will
create a project that is functional, attractive, and an asset to the community.
c. Building and Site Design Evaluation:
The evaluation of the following factors will inform the Planning Board’s
decisions on whether proposed site and building designs achieve the purpose
and intent of these Design Standards and of this Ordinance. The Planning
Board shall develop a Town Center District guidance document (does this
exist?) to further illustrate and provide details of the design standards stated
below. This document shall be utilized by applicants when designing projects
within the District.
ii. The Town Center District shall be designed in a pattern of interconnecting
streets and alleys, defined by buildings, street furniture, landscaping,
pedestrian ways, and sidewalks. The layout should be suited to the
existing topography and other natural and/or historic features of the area.
iii. Within a development project, site design elements should be compatible
with a traditional New England Village character and the Town Center’s
heritage and historic function within the community.
iv. Building architecture should demonstrate the cohesive planning of the
development and present a clearly identifiable, attractive design feature
and appearance throughout. It is not intended that buildings be totally
uniform in appearance or that designers and developers be restricted in
their creativity. Rather, cohesion and identity can be demonstrated in
harmonious building style, scale or mass; consistent use of facade
materials; similar ground level detailing, color or signage; consistency in
functional systems such as roadway or pedestrian way surfaces, signage,
or landscaping; public amenities; the framing of outdoor open space and
linkages, or a clear conveyance in the importance of various buildings and
features on the site.
v. Building architecture should be designed to provide an attractive
appearance. Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly
contrasting color schemes are strongly discouraged. If proposed, such
building styles should be substantially modified to create a project that
complements the traditional New England Village character. All
architectural details should be related to an overall architectural design
approach or theme.
vi. Diversity of architectural design, massing, scale, context, and fenestration
is encouraged. Buildings that are characteristic of a historic period are
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
24
encouraged, particularly if a building style or the site is historically
appropriate for the Town Center or necessary for architectural harmony.
vii. The historic character of building/structures will be retained and
preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features
will be avoided. Further, new additions, exterior alterations, or related
new construction will not destroy historic materials, features, and spatial
relationships that characterize historically significant structures. The new
work shall be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the
historic materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to
protect the integrity of the property and its environment.
viii. Multiple buildings on the same site and attached buildings should be
designed to create a cohesive visual relationship, as well as efficient
circulation and access for pedestrians and vehicles. Accessory buildings
should be designed to complement the primary building and/or use on the
site in design and material expression.
ix. Building placement should take best advantage of solar orientation,
climatic and other environmental conditions, should encourage safety and
use of adjacent public spaces and public open spaces, and should
minimize the impact of activity and light upon and from the project.
x. Buildings adjacent to public open space should generally be oriented to
that space, with access to the building opening onto the public open space.
xi. Implementation of Low Impact Development techniques is strongly
encouraged, including, but not limited to, storm water management
practices, alternative surfacing materials, building and site design
elements, and landscaping features.
xii. The practice of creating structures and using processes that are
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a
building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation,
maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction are strongly encouraged.
xiii. All electrical utilities shall be located underground.
d. Street and Streetscape Standards:
i. Streets shall be laid out in a grid-like pattern to increase the access to and
depth of the district and to define blocks.
ii. Streets shall provide the following streetscape elements: sidewalks,
pedestrian crossings, planting strips, street trees, and lighting. Bike lanes
are encouraged on streets shown on the Regulating Plan and as detailed in
Section 3.9.8 Figures 1 and 2. See Section 3.9.8 Table 6 for additional
standards for required and recommended streetscape elements.
iii. Streets that incorporate commons and squares are encouraged to provide
public parks and spaces and add visual form and interest to the development.
Roundabouts may also be incorporated when necessary to enhance traffic
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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flow and safety.
iv. Other new streets shall be aligned as closely as possible at right angles to
the roadway network shown on the Regulating Plan and spaced according
to the specific needs of the street.
v. Sidewalks. All developments shall provide or contribute to the
development and construction of sidewalks to serve the development site.
The width of the sidewalk shall be consistent with the prevailing pattern in
the immediate neighborhood, provided that no new sidewalk shall be less
than six feet wide. Crosswalks shall be clearly marked with diagonal-striped
paint and electronic signals where applicable. Where feasible, crosswalks
should be constructed of a contrasting material to the street surface, such as
brick.
vi. Each non-residential or mixed-use development is strongly encouraged to
contain one or more public spaces. These spaces should be designed to
encourage community interaction and may include, but are not limited to,
playgrounds, bandstands, picnic areas, central greens, open plazas with
appropriate street furniture, or gardens with pedestrian access and seating.
The overall dimensions of the public spaces may vary depending on existing
site conditions and individual site designs.
e. Landscaping Standards:
The following landscaping standards shall apply to all development:
i. Following are requirements for implementation of buffers:
1. A minimum 20-foot vegetated buffer shall be provided between
proposed development and adjacent residential zoning districts outside
the Town Center District.
2. Street trees and other plantings shall be placed within the building
setback on the lot or right of way of Portsmouth Avenue and newly
constructed streets within the District.
ii. Buffers shall be established or maintained at a density that attenuates year
round the impact of activity and light on adjacent properties.
iii. Use of native species of trees, shrubs, groundcover, and decorative plants
in all landscaping is strongly encouraged.
iv. A landscaping plan, including a maintenance plan and agreement, shall be
approved as part of the review and approval process as stated in the Site
Plan Review (Section V.5.2) and Subdivision Regulations.
f. Lighting Standards:
i. Street, building, and site lighting shall not adversely impact surrounding
uses and residential projects, and be designed with no light spilling or
reflecting into adjacent properties and with protection of the night sky. Such
lighting shall not blink, flash, oscillate, or be of unusually high intensity of
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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brightness, except for purposes of providing emergency services or to
protect public safety.
ii. Energy efficient exterior lighting and streetlights shall be provided.
iii. Lighting of the site shall be adequate at ground level for the protection and
safety of the public in regard to pedestrian access and vehicular circulation.
This shall include, but not be limited to sidewalks, crossings, parking areas,
and other public spaces.
iv. Street lighting shall be consistent throughout the district and in accordance
with the design established by the Town.
v. Refer to additional lighting requirements in Section 3.9.8, Table 6.
vi. Unless otherwise stated, lighting shall comply with the standards of the Site
Plan Review Regulations, Section V.5.8.
g. Parking Standards:
i. On-street parking shall provide short-term parking for patrons of shops and
businesses. On street parking to service residential areas is recommended.
ii. Parking for mixed use developments shall provide long term and shared
parking by multiple uses and users.
iii. Delivery and other service related areas for mixed use and non-residential
uses can be located at the front, rear, or sides of buildings, or within
designated portions of parking areas. Loading docks and service areas shall
not face a public frontage. Delivery and service vehicles are encouraged to
utilize rear alleys for building access.
iv. Refer to additional parking requirements in Section 3.9.8, Table 7.
v. Parking in the District shall comply with the requirements of Section V.5.9
of the Site Plan Regulations.
h. Pedestrian and Bicycle Access:
i. Direct pedestrian and bicycle connections between mixed-use development
and residential areas are required. Such connections include connections
between sidewalks and walking paths, connections between bike paths in
the residential area and the mixed-use development, connections from
residential areas to parking areas within the District, and connections to
adjacent neighborhoods that have sidewalks or paths. In all cases, bicycles
shall not be allowed on and a clear delineation shall be made between
bicycle paths and sidewalks through appropriate signage. In the residential
areas and in paths within the conservation area and recreational trails,
bicycles and pedestrians may share the same path. In winter months,
designated sidewalks and pedestrian/bicycle paths shall be cleared of snow
and ice except in conservation and recreational trail areas, where paths may
be used for winter recreation to include cross country skiing and
snowshoeing. Where feasible, bicycle and pedestrian access shall be
provided to existing bus stop, or other mass transit.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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3.9.8 DEVELOPMENT OF STANDARDS AND TABLES
a. Permitted Uses
Type of Use Town Center District
Agriculture and Forestry
Permitted
Includes crop production; customary accessory uses; forestry (tree farming, commercial timbering, non-
commercial harvesting of forest products); community gardening.
Civic/
Institutional
Permitted
Includes schools, nursery through college schools; day care facilities; senior citizen and community
centers; outpatient clinics and treatment facilities; non-profit lodges and fraternal organizations; place of
worship including customary ancillary facilities; public utilities; and municipal buildings.
Commercial
Permitted
Includes retail sales and service; personal and commercial services; professional office; banking and
lending institutions; food service/bar/entertainment; special promotional sales and displays; conference centers, movie and performance theatres, indoor entertainment complex.
Drive-through Service By Conditional Use Permit
Food Service/Bar/
Entertainment1 By Conditional Use Permit
Mixed Use2 Permitted
Open Space/Conservation See #4
Residential – single-family,
two-family
Permitted
Includes single-family (1 unit), Two-family (2 units), workforce housing, manufactured housing, home occupations, accessory dwelling
units.
Residential – multi-family
and other residential uses
Permitted
Includes multi-family (3-8 units), workforce housing, manufactured housing; home occupations; accessory dwelling units; bed and breakfast inns, hotels, motels, hostels; and open space cluster developments.
Recreational
Permitted Includes forestry, wildlife, timber preserves, reservoirs; public parks and playgrounds; natural resource
management and research.
1 Food Service/Bar/Entertainment includes all food service and entertainment related uses such as restaurants, dinner theatres, bars, pubs,
cafes, and coffee shop/diners, permitted mobile food vendors, and farm stands. 2 Mixed-Uses includes Residential and Commercial and/or Professional Business uses in combination in one or several structures; non-
residential use shall comprise >50% of the gross floor area.
Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March 2018
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b. Town Center District Design Standards and Roadways
TABLE 1.
Dimensional Requirements
Footprint, Block or Lot Area Description
Single Family (1 unit)
Two-Family (2 units) 15,000 S.F. minimum lot
Minimum area dependent on Soil-
Based Lot Sizing*
Multi-Family (3-8
units) 15,000 S.F. minimum lot
Minimum area dependent on Soil-
Based Lot Sizing*
Building Footprint
(non-residential and
mixed use)
Minimum area dependent on Soil-
Based Lot Sizing*
Residential, Mixed Use,
and Non-Residential
Block with frontage on no less than
two sides; Minimum area dependent
on Soil-Based Lot Sizing*
* Unless innovative sewage treatment facilities are proposed or public water and wastewater services are available, all
developments shall meet the standards set forth in the Stratham Subdivision Regulations Section 4.3 Soil-Based Lot Size
Determination (as amended).
Frontage Buildout 70% maximum Includes Principal and Accessory
Structures
TABLE 2.
Building Height
Principal Structure
(non-residential, mixed
use, and multi-family)
2.5 stories maximum
35 feet maximum height
14 feet minimum required
for non-residential
Principal Structure
(single-family and two-
family)
2.0 stories maximum;
Maximum Height line needs to be moved to the peak of the roof.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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TABLE 3.
Setbacks – Principal Structures
Principal Structure
(non-residential, mixed use)
Principal Structure
(single-family, two-family, multi-family)
Frontage 0 feet minimum/25 feet maximum Frontage 8 feet minimum/25 feet
maximum
Side 25 feet minimum
0 feet if secondary frontage Side 10 feet minimum
Rear
10 feet minimum
0 feet if secondary frontage
Rear 10 feet minimum
Note: individual buildings on a lot or block may
be connected, with no separation between or
setback from one another.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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TABLE 4.
Setbacks – Accessory Structures
Type of Use Dimensional Requirements
Commercial, Businesses and
Other Non-Residential Uses
1.5 stories maximum height
8 feet minimum first story height
Residential Uses
1.5 stories maximum height
8 feet minimum first story height
Shall be setback behind the front building wall of principal
structure (see diagram below.
Civic, Recreational, Public Facilities or
Transportation Uses
No restrictions on dimensional requirements.
Description
TABLE 5. (Not aligned with Figure 1 – PH)
Town Center District Streetscape Standards
Roadway Type Right of Way Width Description
Street
(proposed local)
50 feet minimum
54 feet maximum
Two-way traffic flow is required; sidewalks required on
one side of street.
Street
(proposed local)
36 feet minimum
38 feet maximum
One-way traffic flow is required; sidewalks required on
one side of street.
Alley 12 feet maximum One-way traffic flow is required.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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TABLE 6. Streetscape Elements
Element Standards Description
Planting Strip
5-foot minimum width
(as shown on roadway
cross-sections)
Refer to Site Plan Review Regulations Section V.5.2. for
landscaping requirements.
Setback Combined 14 foot min,
20 foot max
Composed of sidewalk and planting strip or street buffer
strip with granite curbing.
Crossings
6 foot minimum width,
10 foot maximum width
Required a “t” street
intersections and
permitted at mid-block
Within an individual block or development, shall be
composed consistently of similar materials and may
include brick, pavers, stamped concrete, porous
pavement; all sidewalks shall have granite curbing
against a thoroughfare; sidewalks recommended on both
sides of street (except when serving only residential
development). Differentiate with use of non-asphalt
materials, striping and accent paving or materials.
Street Trees 1 per 25 linear feet
Refer to Site Plan Review Regulations Section V.5.2.;
street tree placement shall alternate with lighting
placement. Shall apply to NH 33 or NH 108 Frontages
only.
Street Lighting 1 per 25 linear feet of
right of way
Along all sidewalks, New England traditional fixtures
with downcast illumination in accordance with the
design established by the Town; lighting placement shall
alternate with street tree placement. Shall apply to NH
33 or NH 108 Frontages only.
Seating Encouraged At public spaces (such as pocket parks and gardens) and
at street intersections.
Shelters 1,000 linear feet of right
of way Painted or coated metal frame or natural materials.
Trash Receptacles Optional Secured and covered at street intersections or mid-block.
Bicycle Racks Required At transit stops/shelters, public spaces, public parking
areas.
TABLE 7.
Parking Area Design Standards
Element Standards Description
Medians
Located between opposing
parking isles and at
periphery
Shall incorporate for use as a storm water management
best management practice, wherever feasible;
vegetation shall be appropriate for wet/dry conditions
and salt tolerant.
Islands Located at end of parking
isles and at entrance/exit
Used primarily as screening and landscaping areas
comprised mostly of trees, shrubs and groundcovers
that are drought and salt tolerant.
Placement
Located at rear or side of
buildings, and interior of
blocks
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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FIGURE 1. Town Center District Roadway Cross-Sections
Street – Two Way Travel (required per Regulating Plan; Minimum width 51 feet; maximum width 55 feet).
Street – One Way Travel (required per Regulating Plan; Minimum width 36 feet; maximum width 38 feet).
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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3.9.9 Architectural and Site Design Standards
a. Building Exterior Features:
i. Building facades shall be compatible in scale, mass, and form with adjacent
structures and the development pattern of the surrounding area (assuming the
adjacent structures are generally in compliance with these design standards).
ii. Exterior building design and detail on all elevations shall be coordinated with
regard to color, types of materials, number of materials, architectural form, and
detailing to achieve harmony and continuity of design.
iii. Paint colors, excluding signage and awnings, shall be limited to a reasonable
number and range of palette to achieve consistency of style and character
historically significant structures and with adjacent development
iv. Where appropriate, architectural details and richly detailed designs are encouraged
to provide variation and creative designs. All features and details should be of a
style consistent with the overall design scheme and in proportion with the building
and historically significant structures.
v. Rear and side building walls, if visible from public streets and spaces or
neighboring properties, shall be designed with similar detailing and materials and
be compatible with the principal facade(s) of the building. All elevations and cross-
sections of a building shall be shown on a site plan.
vi. To avoid long unbroken or unadorned wall planes, building facades and walls
should not extend beyond 50 feet without including changes of wall plane that
provide strong shadow or visual interest.
vii. Exterior materials shall be durable and of high quality. Excessively vibrant colors,
sharply contrasting colors, and highly reflective materials are not compatible with
the traditional New England Village character. Architectural elements visible to
the public, but not detailed on the plans, shall be finished in a material compatible
with other exterior colors and materials.
viii. Pedestrian level storefronts shall employ non-reflective glass or light gray tinted
glass to enhance the visibility of the displayed merchandise from the outside.
ix. Window and door openings on the front façade shall occupy a total of no less than
20% and no more than 70% of the gross square footage of that facade. The size
and placement of windows should be commensurate with architectural style of the
buildings and landscape elements in the development.
x. All windows and doorways shall be encased with wood or simulated wood trim;
decorative trim is preferred. Aluminum windows shall be finished to match the
proposed trim color of the building.
xi. True divided light windows and shutters are encouraged. Shutters shall be sized
such that when closed they cover the window.
xii. All vents, gutters, downspouts, flashing, electrical conduits, etc., shall be painted
to match the color of the adjacent building surface, unless being used expressly as
trim or accent element.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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xiii. Material or color changes generally should occur at a change of plane. Piecemeal
embellishment and frequent changes in color or material should be avoided.
xiv. The visibility of rooftop equipment shall be minimized by grouping all plumbing
vents, ducts, and rooftop mechanical equipment away and screened from public
view at ground level. Wall or ground mounted equipment shall be screened fully
from public view with walls, fences or vegetation. No air conditioning, ventilating,
or other mechanical or electrical equipment, except for lighting fixtures, may
project more than four (4) inches beyond the face of a wall facing a public street or
space.
xv. Awning covers designed for shade and for entryways shall be made of fabric or
simulated fabric-like material that match or complement paint colors used on the
building. Brightly illuminated and franchise type awnings are not acceptable.
xvi. Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly contrasting color schemes
are strongly discouraged. If used, such buildings shall be designed to create a
project that is consistent with traditional New England Village character.
xvii. Fences in the traditional historic New England Village style and materials (i.e.
picket, split rail, wrought iron, brick, stone) shall be used. Chain link security
fences may be allowed only where necessary for safety or security, but their use is
not permitted.
xviii. The following building materials shall be used and combined to create a consistent,
attractive, and cohesive building design:
1. Natural wood and/or cement-based artificial wood siding.
2. Glass.
3. Natural Brick (painted brick is not recommended, as it tends to require frequent
maintenance).
4. Natural Stone (such as, but not limited to, fieldstone, granite, limestone and
marble).
b. Roof Lines, Styles and Materials:
i. Sloped roofs are required. Gabled and hipped roofs should have a slope of greater
than 4/12 (18º), but less than 14/12 (49º).
ii. Gambrel and Mansard roofs are acceptable for appropriately sized structures and
access streets.
iii. Standing seam, copper roofing, asphalt, and slate shingles are preferred.
Photovoltaic (PV) panel roof materials, which simulate traditional roofing
materials, are acceptable. Metal roofs that face the street are discouraged, unless
architecturally blended with the facade.
iv. Flat roofs are not allowed.
c. Site Design:
i. Traditional New England Village planning principles (“Traditional Neighborhood
Design”) are used to create a town center consisting of mixed use and commercial
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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areas organized around public spaces and bordering residential neighborhoods.
ii. All roadways shall provide a pedestrian and bicycle friendly layout and incorporate
landscaping and lighting elements.
d. Land Use and Housing:
i. Mixed Uses in the Town Center District shall provide commercial retail stores and
shops, food service/bar/entertainment establishments, and professional offices and
businesses on the first floor of buildings, with professional office and businesses,
and residential uses optionally on the upper floors.
ii. Residential neighborhoods should include a mix of housing types, sizes and styles,
and provide public gathering and/or recreational spaces or areas for use by
residents, businesses, visitors and the community.
iii. Developments shall provide a viable mix of residential and non-residential uses to
promote living and employment opportunities in the style of a Traditional New
England village.
e. Landscaping:
i. Landscaping shall be an integral component of site design to provide visual interest,
scenic and aesthetic beauty, maintain natural vegetation and landscape features, and
maintain or create greenways throughout the District.
ii. Traditional New England Village landscaping shall include street trees, large shade
trees, groups of plantings, box planters along streets, and pocket gardens and parks.
Low shrubs and flowering plants soften lines of buildings and help screen parking
lots and utilities.
iii. Landscaping shall be integrated with LID practices, general storm water
management, and parking lot and roadway designs.
iv. Landscaping should consider use of native species of trees, shrubs, ground cover
and flowering plants. For all development within the Town Center District, a
Landscaping Plan shall be prepared and submitted following the requirements of
this ordinance and Section V-5.2.N of the Site Plan Regulations.
f. Transportation Network and Access:
i. The District shall incorporate a grid-pattern of streets, loop roads, squares, access
roads, and alleys, around open spaces or public spaces.
ii. The Town Center District shall incorporate grids of local and neighborhood streets.
iii. New roads and streets shall connect to the existing transportation network within
the District and adjacent zoning districts to provide efficient traffic patterns and site
access, and provide for public safety. Development shall provide potential future
connections to adjacent properties and not prevent or preclude these connections.
g. Open Space and Recreation:
i. All development in the District is required to provide a percentage of open space.
These open spaces shall be located to provide connections between existing open
spaces (both within and outside the District), visual interest, scenic vistas and view
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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sheds, diversity in the developed landscape, preserve natural resources and features,
provide gathering spaces for community uses, civic uses and outdoor activities.
ii. Existing conservation lands within the District and beyond its periphery provide
natural areas for passive recreation by residents, visitors and the public, and provide
extensions of the required open space areas within the District.
3.9.9 Definitions of Terms
Please refer to Section 3.8.10 for definitions and terms in the Section.
3.10 ROUTE 33 LEGACY HIGHWAY DISTRICT (Adopted 3/21) (Check for consistent
District name)
3.10.1 Authority:
a. The action of the Town of Stratham, New Hampshire in the adoption of this
Ordinance is authorized under RSA 674:21. II Innovative Land Use Controls
and RSA 674:16 Grant of Power.
b. This Ordinance was adopted to promote the health, safety, and general welfare
of the Town of Stratham and its citizens, including protection of the
environment, conservation of land, energy and natural resources, reduction in
vehicular traffic congestion, (relevant here?) more efficient use of public
funds, health benefits of a pedestrian environment, preservation of community
character, education and recreation, reduction in sprawl development, and
improvement of the built environment.
c. This Section was adopted as one of the instruments of implementation of the
public purposes and objectives of the Town’s Master Plan. This Ordinance is
declared to be in accord with the Master Plan, as required by RSA 674:2.
3.10.2 Applicability:
a. This Ordinance shall establish the Route 33 Legacy Highway Corridor District
(the “District”). The boundaries of the District are shown on the Official Town
Zoning Map (as amended) entitled “Zoning Map, Town of Stratham, NH”, and
hereby incorporated as part of this ordinance.
b. The provisions of the District shall be mandatory for development projects
within the District. Development projects submitted for approval under this
zoning district shall be subject to applicable requirements of the Subdivision
and Site Plan Review Regulations of Stratham.
c. When in conflict, the provisions of the District shall take precedence over those
of other ordinances, regulations, and standards except the Local Health and
Safety Ordinances and Building Codes.
d. Section 3.8.9 Definitions of Terms contains regulatory language that is integral
to the District. Those terms not defined in Section 3.8.9 or in Section II of the
Zoning Ordinance shall be accorded their commonly accepted meanings. In the
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
37
event of conflicts between definitions in the Zoning Ordinance and the District,
those of the District shall take precedence.
e. The requirements of Section 3.10.7 Development Standards and Tables are an
integral part of the District and are legally binding. Unless otherwise noted,
other diagrams and illustrations that accompany this ordinance are provided for
guidance purposes and as recommended examples.
f. If in conflict, numerical requirements shall take precedence over graphic
illustrations.
3.10.3 Purpose and Intent:
The intent of establishing the Route 33 Legacy Highway District is to recognize the
uniquely historic character of this roadway in accordance with the Master Plan
(adopted 2019) which identifies this corridor on its Future Land Use Map (FLUM).
This section of Portsmouth Avenue contains the greatest concentration of historically
significant properties in the town of Stratham. The intent is to maintain the existing
and surrounding neighborhood’s residential/agricultural appearance while allowing
professional office development, expanded home occupations, and limited retail
uses, through creative planning, oversight, and performance standards. The Town’s
objective is to foster greater private investment in the nearly three dozen properties
that have been identified as contributing to the historic character of this heavily
traveled area. The Route 33 Legacy Highway corridor zone offers a unique
opportunity to promote mixed-use development while maintaining buffering for
adjoining residential neighborhoods from disturbance and protecting the historic
fabric of the highway.
3.10.4 The Regulating Plan:
a. The purpose of this Ordinance is to enable, encourage, and implement the
following plans and general requirements.
b. For the purposes of the delineation, the Route 33 Legacy District and the
location and boundaries are hereby established as shown in the 2019 Master
Plan, on the Official Town Zoning Map (as amended), and hereby incorporated
as part of this ordinance.
3.10.5 District Character:
a. Development in the Route 33 Legacy District should incorporate the
following concepts to preserve and complement elements of the historic
character of the Route 33 Legacy Highway:
i. Provide for a traditional pattern of development that supports a diverse
range of uses, open spaces, and walkable development patterns consistent
with the Town’s historic development pattern.
ii. A range of housing types and price levels is encouraged to accommodate
diverse ages and incomes; Workforce housing is encouraged within the
District to promote a diversity of housing choices;
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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iii. Preservation and enhancement of historically and architecturally
significant structures, landmarks, and archeological sites as identified in
the Regulating Plan;
iv. Expansion and provision of public transportation facilities that
promote use and access is encouraged;
v. Provide improved visibility and access to and use of
conservation lands, where appropriate; and
vi. Provide opportunities for agriculture and agritourism, as defined
in Section II, Definitions, 2.1.6 (Rev. 3/16)
3.10.6 Conditional Use Permit
a. The Planning Board shall have the authority to grant or deny a request for a Conditional
Use Permit, pursuant to the provisions of RSA 674:16 and RSA 674:21. A Conditional
Use Permit, for relief from the requirements of this Ordinance, after proper public
notice and public hearing where the Planning Board finds that an application complies
with standards 1. and 2. below.
1. Consistent with the Rt. 33 Legacy Highway District Report, including but not
limited to:
a. Both public and private buildings and landscaping shall contribute to the
physical definition of streetscapes and public spaces; and
b. Development shall adequately accommodate automobiles and emergency
vehicles, while respecting the pedestrian and the spatial form of public
spaces; and
c. Design of streets and buildings shall reinforce safe environments, but not at
the expense of accessibility and efficient traffic flow; and
d. Architecture and landscape design shall complement climate, topography,
community character, and building practice; and
e. Open space and public gathering places shall be provided as locations that
reinforce the identity and activity of the District and the community; and
f. New development and redevelopment shall be otherwise consistent with the
intent and purpose of this ordinance; and
g. Does not unduly impact adjacent properties and uses in the District.
2. Improves public safety within the District and/or in adjacent zoning districts;
or provides environmental and natural resource protection; or provides a
measurable public benefit (such as increased public space, open space or
public amenities).
b. The granting or denial of a conditional use permit by the planning board may be
appealed to the superior court, as provided for in RSA 677:15. A planning board
decision on the issuance of a conditional use permit cannot be appealed to the
zoning board of adjustment (RSA 676:5 iii).
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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3.10.7 Building and Site Design Standards:
a. Purpose:
In order to provide for harmonious and aesthetically pleasing development in the
built environment [RSA 674:44, II(b)], the Planning Board will apply the
following Building and Site Design Standards in its review of all applications in
the District.
b. Intent:
i Maintaining the quality and character of the District is dependent upon
the quality and character of the architecture and development that is
allowed to occur. Poorly planned and executed development detracts
from the character and function of the built environment, while well-
planned development enhances community character, quality of life,
and value of the surrounding properties and the community overall.
ii Design standards are a tool to help guide development and
redevelopment assuring that community priorities are an integral part
of the design process. Design Standards, implemented as part of the
application review and approval process, are a set of design principles
that offer a positive direction for building and site level design. The
guidelines and interpretations are based upon maintaining and
enhancing the character of the District.
iii Design Standards address a wide range of design issues including such
elements as: pedestrian and traffic circulation, building mass and scale,
architectural details and building materials, signs, landscaping,
lighting, open space, and natural features. When integrated, these
elements will create a project that is functional, attractive, and an asset
to the community.
c. Building and Site Design Evaluation:
The evaluation of the following factors will inform the Planning Board’s
decisions on whether proposed site and building designs achieve the purpose and
intent of these Design Standards and of this Ordinance. The Planning Board, in
consultation with the Heritage Commission, shall develop a Route 33 Legacy
District guidance document to further illustrate and provide details of the design
standards stated below. This document shall be utilized by applicants when
designing projects within the District.
i. The District shall be designed to follow existing patterns of
development, including relationships of buildings to the street. The
layout must be suited to the existing topography and other natural
and/or historic features of the area.
ii. Site design elements shall be compatible with a traditional agrarian
New England character and the District’s heritage and historic
function within the community.
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iii. Building architecture should demonstrate the cohesive planning of the
development and present a clearly identifiable, attractive design
feature and appearance throughout. It is not intended that buildings
be totally uniform in appearance or that designers and developers be
restricted in their creativity. Rather, cohesion and identity can be
demonstrated in harmonious building style, scale or mass; consistent
use of facade materials; similar ground level detailing, color or
signage; consistency in functional systems such as driveways, parking
areas, and pedestrian ways, signage, or landscaping; public amenities;
the framing of outdoor open space and linkages, or a clear conveyance
in the importance of various buildings and features on the site.
iv. Building architecture should be designed to provide an attractive
appearance. Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly
contrasting color schemes are strongly discouraged. If proposed, such
building styles should be substantially modified to create a project that
complements the traditional agrarian New England character. All
architectural details should be related to an overall architectural
design approach or theme.
v. Diversity of architectural design, massing, scale, context, and
fenestration is encouraged. Buildings that are characteristic of a
historic period are encouraged, particularly if a building style or the
site is historically appropriate for the Route 33 Legacy or necessary
for architectural harmony.
vi. The character of existing historic buildings/structures will be
retained and preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or
alteration of features will be avoided. Further, new additions, exterior
alterations, or related new construction will not destroy historic
materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize
historically significant structures. The new work shall be
differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic
materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect
the integrity of the property and its environment.
vii. vii. Multiple buildings on the same site and attached buildings should
be designed to create a cohesive visual relationship, as well as
efficient circulation and access for pedestrians and vehicles.
Accessory buildings should be designed to complement the primary
building and/or use on the site in design and material expression.
viii. Building placement should follow the existing/historic development
pattern of the highway, and should minimize the impact of activity
and light upon and from the District.
ix. Buildings adjacent to public open space should generally be oriented
to that space, with access to the building opening onto the public
open space.
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x. Implementation of Low Impact Development techniques is strongly
encouraged, including, but not limited to, storm water management
practices, alternative surfacing materials, building and site design
elements, and landscaping features.
xi. The practice of creating structures and using processes that are
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a
building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation,
maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction are strongly
encouraged.
xii. All private electrical utilities shall be located underground.
d. Street and Streetscape Standards:
i. Streets, where proposed, shall be laid out in a grid-like pattern to increase
the access to the district and to define blocks.
ii. Streets shall provide the following streetscape elements: sidewalks or
paths, pedestrian crossings, planting strips, street trees, and lighting. Bike
lanes are encouraged on streets shown on the Regulating Plan and as
detailed in Section 3.9.8 Figures 1 and 2. See Section 3.9.8 Table 6 for
additional standards for required and recommended streetscape elements.
e. Landscaping Standards:
The following landscaping standards shall apply to all development: i. Following are
requirements for implementation of buffers:
1. A minimum 20-foot vegetated buffer shall be provided between
proposed development and adjacent residential zoning districts outside
the District.
2. Street trees and other plantings shall be placed within the building
setback on the lot or right of way of NH 33 and newly constructed streets
within the District.
3. Buffers shall be established or maintained at a density that attenuates
year-round the impact of activity and light on adjacent properties.
4. Use of native species of trees, shrubs, groundcover, and decorative plants
in all landscaping is strongly encouraged.
5. A landscaping plan, including a maintenance plan and agreement, shall
be approved as part of the review and approval process as stated in the
Site Plan Review (Section V.5.2) and Subdivision Regulations.
f. Lighting Standards:
i Street, building, and site lighting shall not adversely impact surrounding
uses and residential projects, and not be designed with spilling or reflecting
into adjacent properties regulated by Site Plan Regulations and with
protection of the night sky. Such lighting shall not blink, flash, oscillate, or
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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be of unusually high intensity of brightness, except for purposes of
providing emergency services or to protect public safety.
ii Energy efficient exterior lighting and streetlights shall be provided.
iii Lighting of the site shall be adequate at ground level for the protection and
safety of the public in regard to pedestrian access and vehicular circulation.
This shall include, but not be limited to sidewalks, crossings, parking areas,
and other public spaces.
iv Refer to additional lighting requirements in Section 3.9.8, Table 6.
v Unless otherwise stated, lighting shall comply with the standards of the Site
Plan Review Regulations, Section V.5.8. g.
g. Parking Standards:
i. On-street parking shall provide short-term parking for patrons of shops and
businesses. On street parking and off-site shared parking arrangements are
recommended.
ii. Parking for mixed use developments shall provide long term and shared
parking by multiple uses and users.
iii. Delivery and other service-related areas for mixed use and non-residential
uses can be located at the front, rear, or sides of buildings, or within
designated portions of parking areas. Loading docks and service areas shall
not face a public frontage and shall be provided with year-round screening
from residential zoned abutting properties. Delivery and service vehicles
are encouraged to utilize rear alleys for building access.
iv. Refer to additional parking requirements in Section 3.9.7, Table 7.
v. Parking in the District shall comply with the requirements of Section V.5.9
of the Site Plan Regulations unless granted a waiver by the Planning Board.
h. Pedestrian and Bicycle Access:
i. Projects are encouraged to support pedestrian and bicycle transportation
options and amenities at a scale commiserate with their development.
Connections to adjacent projects and properties are strongly encouraged
and may be required by the Planning Board.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
43
3.10.8 DEVELOPMENT OF STANDARDS AND TABLES A. PERMITTED USES BY
ZONE (SEE TABLE 3.6 “33 HWY”) B. ROUTE 33 LEGACY HIGHWAY DISTRICT
DESIGN STANDARDS AND ROADWAYS
TABLE 1.
Building Height
Principal Structure (non-residential, mixed use, and multi-family)
2.5 stories maximum
35 feet maximum height
14 feet minimum required for non-residential
Principal Structure (single-family and two family)
2.0 stories maximum;
Maximum height line needs to be moved to the peak of the roof.
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TABLE 2.
Setbacks – Principal Structures**
Principal Structure (non-residential, mixed use)
Principal Structure
(single-family, two-family, multi-family)
Frontage 30 feet minimum/50 feet
maximum Frontage
20 feet minimum/50 feet
maximum
Side 25 feet minimum 0 feet if
secondary frontage Side 10 feet minimum
Rear
10 feet minimum
0 feet if secondary frontage
Rear 20 feet minimum
Note: individual buildings on a lot or block may be connected, with no separation between or setback from one another.
**New structures shall not be located in a manner that minimizes an existing structure of historic significance.
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TABLE 3.
Setbacks – Accessory Structures**
Type of Use Dimensional Requirements
Commercial, Businesses and
Other Non-Residential Uses
1.5 stories maximum height
8 feet minimum first story height
400 S.F. maximum footprint
Residential Uses
1.5 stories maximum height
8 feet minimum first story height
400 S.F. maximum footprint
Shall be setback behind the front building wall of principal structure (see diagram below.
Civic, Recreational, Public Facilities or Transportation Uses
No restrictions on dimensional requirements.
Description
**New structures shall not be located in a manner that minimizes an existing structure of historic significance.
3.10.9 Architectural and Site Design Standards
a. Building Exterior Features:
i. Building facades shall be compatible in scale, mass, and form with
adjacent structures and the development pattern of the surrounding area
(assuming the adjacent structures are generally in compliance with these
design standards).
ii. Exterior building design and detail on all elevations shall be coordinated
with regard to color, types of materials, number of materials, architectural
form, and detailing to achieve harmony and continuity of design.
iii. Paint colors, excluding signage and awnings, shall be limited to a
reasonable number and range of palette to achieve consistency of style
and character historically significant structures and with adjacent
development.
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46
iv. Where appropriate, architectural details and richly detailed designs are
encouraged to provide variation and creative designs. All features and
details should be of a style consistent with the overall design scheme and
in proportion with the building and historically significant structures.
v. Rear and side building walls, if visible from public streets and spaces or
neighboring properties, shall be designed with similar detailing and
materials and be compatible with the principal facade(s) of the building.
All elevations and cross sections of a building shall be shown on a site
plan.
vi. To avoid long unbroken or unadorned wall planes, building facades and
walls should not extend beyond 50 feet without including changes of wall
plane that provide strong shadow or visual interest.
vii. Exterior materials shall be durable and of high quality. Excessively
vibrant colors, sharply contrasting colors, and highly reflective materials
are not compatible with the traditional New England character.
Architectural elements visible to the public, but not detailed on the plans
shall be finished in a material compatible with other exterior colors and
materials.
viii. Pedestrian level storefronts shall employ non-reflective glass or light
gray tinted glass to enhance the visibility of the displayed merchandise
from the outside.
ix. Window and door openings on the front façade shall occupy a total of no
less than 20% and no more than 70% of the gross square footage of that
facade. The size and placement of windows should be commensurate
with the architectural style of the buildings and landscape elements in the
development.
x. All windows and doorways shall be encased with wood or simulated
wood trim; decorative trim is preferred. Aluminum windows shall be
finished to match the proposed trim color of the building.
xi. True divided light windows and shutters are encouraged. Shutters shall
be sized such that when closed they cover the window.
xii. All vents, gutters, downspouts, flashing, electrical conduits, etc., shall be
painted to match the color of the adjacent building surface, unless being
used expressly as trim or accent element.
xiii. Material or color changes generally should occur at a change of plane.
Piecemeal embellishment and frequent changes in color or material
should be avoided.
xiv. The visibility of rooftop equipment shall be minimized by grouping all
plumbing vents, ducts, and rooftop mechanical equipment away and
screened from public view at ground level. Wall or ground mounted
equipment shall be screened fully from public view with walls, fences or
vegetation. No air conditioning, ventilating, or other mechanical or
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
47
electrical equipment, except for lighting fixtures, may project more than
four (4) inches beyond the face of a wall facing a public street or space.
xv. Awning covers designed for shade and for entryways shall be made of
fabric or simulated fabric-like material that match or complement paint
colors used on the building. Brightly illuminated and franchise type
awnings are not acceptable.
xvi. Franchise or corporate style architecture and/or highly contrasting color
schemes are strongly discouraged. If used, such buildings shall be
designed to create a project that is consistent with traditional New
England character.
xvii. Fences in the traditional historic New England Village style and materials
(i.e. picket, split rail, wrought iron, brick, or stone) shall be used. Chain
link security fences may be allowed only where necessary for safety or
security, but their use is otherwise not permitted.
xviii. The following building materials shall be used and combined to create a
consistent, attractive, and cohesive building design:
1. Natural wood and/or cement-based artificial wood siding.
2. Glass.
3. Natural Brick (painted brick is not recommended, as it tends to
require frequent maintenance).
4. Natural Stone (such as, but not limited to, fieldstone, granite,
limestone and marble).
b Roof Lines, Styles and Materials:
i. Sloped roofs are required. Gabled and hipped roofs should have
a slope of greater than 4/12 (18º), but less than 14/12 (49º).
ii. Gambrel and Mansard roofs are acceptable for appropriately
sized structures and access streets.
iii. Standing seam, copper roofing, asphalt, and slate shingles are
preferred. Photovoltaic (PV) panel roof materials, which
“simulate” traditional roofing materials, are acceptable. Metal
roofs that face the street are discouraged, unless architecturally
blended with the façade.
iv. Flat roofs are discouraged and if used should not be visible from
adjacent properties, particularly where roof-mounted
mechanical equipment or similar is visible to adjacent
properties.
c. Site Design:
i. Traditional agrarian New England planning principles
(“Traditional Neighborhood Design”) are used to create a
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
48
District consisting of mixed uses that border
residential/agricultural neighborhoods.
ii. All roadways shall provide a pedestrian and bicycle friendly
layout and incorporate landscaping and lighting elements.
d. Landscaping:
i. Landscaping shall be an integral component of site design to provide visual
interest, scenic and aesthetic beauty, maintain natural vegetation and
landscape features, and maintain or create greenways and viewsheds
throughout the District.
ii. Traditional New England landscaping shall include street trees, large shade
trees, groups of plantings, and flower gardens. Low shrubs and flowering
plants soften lines of buildings and help screen parking areas and utilities.
iii. Landscaping shall be integrated with low impact development (LID)
practices, general storm water management, and parking lot and roadway
designs.
iv. Landscaping should consider use of native species of trees, shrubs, ground
cover and flowering plants. For all development within the Route 33 Legacy
District, a Landscaping Plan shall be prepared and submitted following the
requirements of this ordinance and Section V-5.2.N of the Site Plan
Regulations.
e. Transportation Network and Access:
New roads and streets shall connect to the existing transportation network within
the District and adjacent zoning districts to provide efficient traffic patterns and
site access, and provide for public safety. Development shall provide potential
future connections to adjacent properties and not prevent or preclude these
connections.
f. Open Space and Recreation:
i. All development in the District is required to provide a percentage of open
space; the percentage shall be determined by the Planning Board during Site
Plan Review. These open spaces shall be located to provide connections
between existing open spaces (both within and outside the District), visual
interest, scenic vistas and view sheds, diversity in the developed landscape,
preserve natural resources and features.
ii. Existing conservation lands within the District and beyond its periphery
provide natural areas for passive recreation by residents, visitors and the
public, and provide extensions of the required open space areas within the
District.
3.10.10 Definitions of Terms
Please refer to Section 3.8.10 for definitions and terms in this Section.
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
49
USES: ZONING DISTRICT
A. RESIDENTIAL USES: R/A MAH PRE TC GCBD RT33 SC CLIO IND
1. Single-Family Dwelling. P P P P X P X X X
2. Two-Family Dwelling. P P P P X P S/C X X
3. Multi-Family Dwelling in accordance with Section 5.8 of this Ordinance.
X X C P C C C C X
4. Cluster Developments by conditional use permit in accordance with Section VIII of this Ordinance. (Rev. 3/99) Also Senior Housing as set forth in Section 5.7 (3/05)
C X C P C C C X X
5. Workforce and Elderly Affordable Housing in accordance with Section 5.8 of this Ordinance.
C X C P C C C C X
6. Manufactured Housing; P P X P C X X X X
7. Mobile Homes; in accordance with Section IX of this Ordinance.
X P X X X X X X X
8. Home Occupations in accordance with Sections 2.1.27, 5.13 (3/10)
S/C S/C S/C P C S/C X X X
9. Accessory Dwelling Units in accordance with Section 5.4. (Rev. 3/90, 3/05, 3/17, 3/18)
P P P P X P X X X
B. TEMPORARY RESIDENTIAL USES
1. Overnight and Day Camps, Cottage Colonies, Vacation Resorts, and similar Recreational Facilities.
S/C S/C X X C C X X X
2. Bed and Breakfast Inns. S/C S/C S/C P C C P P X
3. Hotels, Motels, and Hostels. (Rev. 3/98) X X X P C C P C X
C. OUTDOOR/ RECREATIONAL USES: 1. Forestry, Wildlife, Timber Preserves,
Reservoirs, and Nature Study areas. P P P P C P P P P
2. Public Parks and Playgrounds. P P P P C P P S/C S/C
3. Commercial Riding Stables and Riding Trails.
S/C S/C X X X C X X X
4. Historic Building or Site open to public. P P P P C P P P P
5. Recreational Camping Parks, Recreational Areas, Residential Tenting and Recreational Vehicles.
S/C S/C X X C C X X X
D. AGRICULTURAL / FORESTRY USES:
1. Farming including Dairying, Livestock, Animal and Poultry Raising, Tilling of Soil, Horticulture, Crop Production, including customary accessory uses.
P P P P1 C P P P P
2. Tree Farming, Commercial Timbering, Non-commercial Harvesting of Forest Products.
P P X P1 C P P P P
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USES: ZONING DISTRICT
E. INSTITUTIONAL USES: R/A MAH PRE TC GCBD RT33 SC CLIO IND
1. Private Schools, Nursery through College. S/C S/C X P C P S/C S/C S/C
2. Day-Care Facilities. (Rev. 3/95) S/C S/C S/C P C P S/C C S/C
3. Senior Citizen Centers. S/C S/C S/C P C P X C X
4. Non-profit Lodges and Fraternal Organizations.
S/C S/C X P C P X X S/C
5. Hospitals, Clinics, Nursing Homes and Rehabilitation Centers.
X X X P C P S/C S/C S/C
6. Funeral Home or Parlor. X X X P C P S/C S/C X
7. Place of worship plus customary ancillary facilities. (Rev. 3/89)
S/C S/C P P C P X X C9
8. Cemetery. P P P P C P X X X
9. Public Utilities. S/C S/C S/C P C P S/C S/C S/C
10. Municipal Buildings. P P P P C P P P P
F. COMMERCIAL USES:
1. Retail Sales. (Rev. 3/13) X X C2 P P S/C P P S/C
2. Personal Services. (Rev. 3/13) X X X P P S/C P P P
3. Commercial Services.(Rev. 3/13) X X X P P S/C P P P
4. Professional Office. (Rev. 3/13) X X P P P S/C P P P
5. Banks & Lending Institutions. X X S/C P P S/C P P P
6. Restaurants. X X X P P S/C P P C9
7. Filling Stations, Service Stations. X X X X C X X X X
8. Motor Vehicle Dealerships, Repair Garages, Body Shops, Paint Shops. (Rev. 3/99)
X X X X C X X X X
9. Veterinary Hospitals. X X X P C S/C P P X
10. Kennels, with a minimum lot size of five acres and a structure setback of a minimum of 100 feet from all lot lines.
S/C X X X C S/C S/C S/C X
11. Airports, Runways, Control Towers, Administration Buildings, Hangars.
X X X X X X X X X
12. Drive-through services X X X X C C X X X
13. Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (Rev. 3/97)
S/C X P X X X X X X
USES: ZONING DISTRICT
F. COMMERCIAL USES: R/A MAH PRE TC GCBD RT 33 SC CLIO IND
13. Adult Uses. (Adopted 3/93) X X X X S/C5 X S/C5 X X
14. Special Promotional Sales & Displays6. (Adopted 3/96)
X X X P P X P P X
15. Self Storage or Warehousing. (Adopted 3/99)
X X X X C7 X C7 C7 X
16. Conference Center. (Adopted 3/09) X X X P P S/C P X X
17. Movie Theater, Indoor Entertainment Complex. (Adopted 3/09)
X X X P P S/C P X X
Town of Stratham Zoning Ordinance Amended March
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USES: ZONING DISTRICT
R/A MAH PRE TC GCBD RT 33 SC CLIO IND
G. INDUSTRIAL USES: 1. Manufacturing, Assembly, Fabricating
Operations 10 X X X X C X X C P
2. Research and Development, Corporate, and Business Offices.
X X X P C C P P P
3. Warehousing and Wholesaling Operations. X X X X C X S/C C P
4. Freight and Trucking Terminals. X X X X C X S/C C S/C
5. Bulk Storage and Distribution of Goods, except Fuels.
X X X X X X X C P
6. Bulk Storage of Fossil Fuels. X X X X X X X X X
7. Earth Products Removal subject to the provisions of Section X.
P P X X C C P P P
8. Commercial Sawmills. X X X X X X S/C X S/C
9. Junk Yards, Recycling Centers. X X X X X X X X S/C
10. Special Promotional Sales & Displays6. (Adopted 3/96)
X X X P P X P P X
11. Light Industrial. (Adopted 3/98) X X X X X X P8 P P
10. Light Manufacturing Facility includes facilities that produce and sell 1) artisanal products
derived from materials such as paper, wood, metal and ceramic, food products, and fine art, or
2) light manufacturing determined by the Board to not have negative impacts on traffic,
circulation, or similar neighborhood impacts.
Comments from Nate Merrill:
I just reviewed the redlined proposed zoning changes document. In addition to ag structures, the other big problem lies in the table of uses. It appears the PB chose to simply eliminate the outer and conservation zones, leaving the central zone table of uses in force for the entire Gateway zone. This is problematic. There are numerous conservation easement properties that fall within the Gateway zone (which is why we had a conservation zone built into the regulations so that they would not be non-conforming uses). And the loss of the outer zone now means that agricultural, forestry, and recreational uses are by CUP only, rather than by right. This should be fixed prior to this proposal going to the warrant. Personally, I would argue they should’ve kept the outer zone table of uses, and eliminated the central zone (since the whole premise of this thing is that we aren’t getting water & sewer anytime soon, and therefore can’t achieve the density that was envisioned for the central zone). But at the very least, farming, forestry, and recreational uses should be Permitted (by right) rather than by CUP. You mentioned that the ag building issue was discussed at a staff meeting… What was the upshot of that discussion? I know that Bruce Scamman raised it as a concern prior to the last PB meeting, which I was hoping to attend but did not make it.